Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or meal prep for busy weeknights. The addition of bacon adds a savory depth, while the apples and prunes bring a subtle sweetness, creating a well-balanced stew. Ideal for any occasion, this hearty stew will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For Flavoring
• For the Liquid
• For Sweetness
• For Thickening
• How to Make Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes
• Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
• Step 2: Brown the Pork
• Step 3: Cook the Bacon
• Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic
• Step 5: Combine Ingredients
• Step 6: Simmer
• Step 7: Add Fruits
• Step 8: Thicken Stew
• How to Serve Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes
• With Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Over Rice
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by a Simple Salad
• How to Perfect Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes
• Best Side Dishes for Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes
• Reheating Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes take to cook?
• Can I use other meats in this stew?
• What sides pair well with Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes?
• Can I customize this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful combination: The mix of pork, bacon, apples, and prunes creates a unique flavor profile that is both savory and sweet.
• Comforting dish: Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table with ease.
• Versatile servings: Great for family meals or entertaining guests, this recipe serves eight people, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Make-ahead friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes requires a few essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or braiser
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or braiser: This heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking of your stew.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the pork shoulder and vegetables easier and safer.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked bacon from the pot without excess grease.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 3 ½ – 4 lb pork shoulder
• ½ lb bacon
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• kosher salt (as needed)

For Flavoring

• 1 x 500 ml can hard cider (or apple juice)
• 2 tbsp grainy mustard
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Liquid

• 3 cups chicken broth

For Sweetness

• 1 cup prunes
• 2 apples

For Thickening

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

How to Make Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder.
2. Cut the pork into 2-inch chunks and pat dry.
3. Cut the bacon into strips or cubes and set aside.
4. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Pork

1. Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork pieces with kosher salt.
3. Add olive oil to the pan; when hot, brown the pork in batches until golden on several sides.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

1. After browning the pork, add bacon to the braiser.
2. Sauté until crispy; remove with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels.
3. Spoon off all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the pan.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add diced onions to the braiser; sauté over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with cider; bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in both mustards along with thyme sprigs and kosher salt.
2. Return browned pork to braiser along with any juices accumulated.
3. Add chicken broth; bring just to a boil before reducing heat.

Step 6: Simmer

1. Cover and let simmer gently on low for about 1 hour.

Step 7: Add Fruits

1. Skim excess fat off braising liquid.
2. Add prunes and cooked bacon; continue simmering covered on low for another 15 minutes.
3. Quarter apples then slice; add apple slices to stew cooking another 10-15 minutes until tender.

Step 8: Thicken Stew

1. Spoon out about 1/4 cup of liquid into a bowl; whisk in cornstarch until smooth.
2. Stir slurry into stew; cook for another couple of minutes until thickened.

Serve this delicious Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes alongside creamy mashed turnips or potatoes for an unforgettable meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Serving Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is all about complementing its rich flavors. This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of sides that enhance its taste and texture.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth and buttery contrast to the stew, soaking up the delicious sauce.

Over Rice

• Serving the stew over rice creates a filling meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful broth, making each bite satisfying.

With Crusty Bread

• Crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the stew. It adds a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the meat and fruits.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds brightness and freshness to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

Accompanied by a Simple Salad

• A light salad with greens and a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich stew, making for a well-rounded meal.

How to Perfect Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

To achieve an exceptional Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes, consider these simple tips that elevate your cooking.

• Choose quality pork: Selecting a good cut of pork shoulder ensures tender meat that holds up in stews.
• Sear properly: Browning the pork well develops depth in flavor. Don’t rush this step!
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh thyme and apples infuse vibrant flavors that dried or older ingredients may lack.
• Balance sweetness: Adjust the prunes and apples based on your preference for sweetness; you can add more or less as needed.
• Let it rest: Allowing the stew to sit after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving. A little extra salt can make a big difference in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

Pairing side dishes with your Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm loaf brushed with garlic butter complements the stew nicely.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition.
3. Colcannon: This Irish dish of mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage offers creaminess alongside robust flavors.
4. Braised Greens: Tender greens cooked slowly impart earthy notes that balance out the sweetness of the stew.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon dressing provides a nutty flavor while being healthy.
6. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach pairs beautifully with hearty stews for an indulgent touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the pork can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always brown the meat well to develop rich flavors.
• Overcooking Apples: Adding apples too early can cause them to turn mushy. Add them in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for the best texture.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your stew bland. Always taste before serving and add salt as needed.
• Ignoring Fat Removal: Not skimming excess fat from the stew can make it greasy. Take a moment to skim off any unwanted fat for a cleaner dish.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using inferior quality pork or cider can affect the overall taste. Choose fresh ingredients for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the stew, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes take to cook?

The total cook time is about 90 minutes, including simmering time.

Can I use other meats in this stew?

Yes! While pork is traditional, you can substitute chicken or beef if you prefer.

What sides pair well with Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes?

Hearty sides like creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread complement this stew perfectly.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples, and Prunes is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect for any dinner occasion and can easily be customized to suit your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe today!