Slow-Simmered Pork Shoulder Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty, comforting stew featuring tender chunks of pork shoulder slowly braised with carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs. The long simmer breaks down the tough shoulder meat into fork-tender pieces while building rich, savory flavors throughout. Perfect for cold weather dinners or feeding a crowd, this one-pot meal requires minimal prep but delivers maximum satisfaction. The combination of thyme and rosemary adds earthy depth, while the tomato paste provides subtle umami richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat
- 2
Add pork shoulder chunks and brown on all sides
- 3
Remove pork and set aside, add onions and garlic to same pot and saute until softened
- 4
Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary and cook for another minute
- 5
Return pork to pot and add carrots, potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper
- 6
Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours until pork is tender
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired
Tips
Brown the pork in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, which prevents proper searing
Test for doneness by checking if pork shreds easily with a fork after the minimum cooking time
Add root vegetables in the last hour if you prefer them firmer rather than very soft
Good to Know
Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight container
Can be made 1 day ahead, flavors improve overnight
Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes
Common Mistakes
Brown meat properly to avoid gray, boiled appearance
Keep heat low during simmering to prevent tough, chewy meat
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a slow cooker instead?
Yes, brown the meat first then transfer everything to slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.
What if my stew is too thin?
Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with cold water and stir into simmering stew, cook until thickened.
How long will leftovers keep?
Refrigerated leftovers stay fresh for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months in freezer bags.