This hearty pork and chickpea stew bursts with the bright flavors of orange and cumin. The tender pork shoulder melds perfectly with the nutty chickpeas, and the tang of orange zest adds a refreshing twist. A comforting and piquant dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
This recipe calls for a few unique ingredients, such as cumin seeds and orange zest. They can be found in most supermarkets. The cumin seeds are often located in the spice aisle, while the orange zest can be obtained by grating the outer peel of an orange. The pork shoulder is a great cut of meat for stews due to its fat content and flavor. Lastly, the chickpeas add a substantial, earthy element to the dish.
Essential Ingredients for the Pork and Chickpea Stew
Extra virgin olive oil: It's used for sauteing and browning the pork.
Pork shoulder: A perfect cut for stews because it remains tender and juicy.
Salt and pepper: They enhance the flavor of the ingredients.
Onion: It gives a sweet and savory depth to the stew.
Garlic: It contributes a punch of flavor.
Orange juice: It adds a citrusy, tangy note to the stew.
Water: It's necessary for creating the stew's base.
Bay leaf: It infuses the stew with its herbal, slightly floral flavor.
Cumin seeds: They lend a warm, slightly spicy taste.
Chickpeas: They provide a nutty flavor and a satisfying texture.
Orange zest: It elevates the stew with its fresh, citrus aroma.
Parsley: It adds a fresh, slightly peppery note to the stew.
One reader, Godiva Mccray says:
This pork and chickpea stew with orange and cumin recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the pork is incredibly tender. The combination of orange and cumin adds a unique twist that's simply delightful. It's a must-try for anyone who loves hearty and flavorful stews.
Techniques Required
How to brown the pork: In a large enameled cast-iron casserole, heat the olive oil and working in 3 batches, add the pork, season with salt and pepper and cook over moderately high heat until browned all over, about 9 minutes.
How to simmer the orange juice: Add the orange juice to the casserole and simmer until reduced by half.
How to grind cumin seeds: In a mortar, grind the toasted cumin seeds to a powder and stir into the stew.
How to cook chickpeas: Add the chickpeas to the stew and cook over moderate heat for 10 minutes.
How to reheat the stew: The stew can be made through step 2 and refrigerated for 2 days. Reheat, add the chickpeas and stir in the garlic, orange zest, and parsley.
How to serve: Serve with white rice.
How To Make Pork and Chickpea Stew with Orange and Cumin
Zesty bites of orange and hearty seasonings of cumin elevates the richness and flavor of this tender pork and chickpea stew!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 3lbspork shoulder,boneless, trimmed
- salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1medium onion
- 3large garlic cloves
- ½cuporange juice,fresh
- 4cupswater,(1 quart)
- 1bay leaf
- 1½tspcumin seeds
- 1cupchickpeas,canned
- 1½tsporange zest,finely grated
- 2tbspparsley,chopped
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large enameled cast-iron casserole.
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Working in 3 batches, add the pork, season with salt and pepper and cook over moderately high heat for about 9 minutes, until browned all over. Transfer the pork to a bowl.
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Add the onion and ⅔ of the minced garlic to the casserole and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the orange juice and simmer until reduced by half.
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Add the water and bay leaf and bring to a simmer. Return the pork to the casserole along with any accumulated juices and bring to a simmer.
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In a mortar, grind the toasted cumin seeds to a powder and stir into the stew.
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Simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, until the pork is tender. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pork to a bowl.
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Add the chickpeas to the stew and cook over moderate heat for 10 minutes. Return the pork to the stew.
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Stir in the zest, the remaining minced garlic and the parsley and simmer for 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper. Discard the bay leaf.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 728.11kcal
- Fat: 47.57g
- Saturated Fat: 15.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 22.01g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.79g
- Carbohydrates: 27.08g
- Fiber: 5.00g
- Sugar: 6.14g
- Protein: 46.58g
- Cholesterol: 161.03mg
- Sodium: 1088.14mg
- Calcium: 83.87mg
- Potassium: 1039.21mg
- Iron: 4.58mg
- Vitamin A: 14.06µg
- Vitamin C: 17.84mg
Essential Technique Tip for Perfecting This Pork and Chickpea Stew
When browning your pork, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This could cause the meat to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable brown crust from forming. Also, toasting your cumin seeds before grinding them can enhance their flavor and give your stew a deeper, more complex taste. Lastly, adding the orange zest towards the end of cooking helps to preserve its bright, citrusy flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pork and Chickpea Stew
Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the pork the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker to significantly reduce the cooking time for the pork and chickpea stew.
Canned chickpeas: Opt for canned chickpeas instead of dried ones to skip the soaking and cooking time.
Substitute Ingredients For Pork and Chickpea Stew with Orange and Cumin Recipe
pork shoulder - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast has a similar rich and hearty flavor to pork shoulder and will work well in the stew.
orange juice - Substitute with tangerine juice: Tangerine juice has a similar citrusy flavor to orange juice and can be used as a substitute in the recipe.
cumin seeds - Substitute with coriander seeds: Coriander seeds have a slightly citrusy and floral flavor that can complement the dish similarly to cumin seeds.
chickpeas - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans have a creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable substitute for chickpeas in the stew.
How to Beautifully Present This Pork and Chickpea Stew
Elevate the pork: Slice the pork into elegant, uniform pieces and arrange them in a visually appealing manner on the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the stew with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate vibrant orange zest: Carefully sprinkle the vibrant orange zest over the stew to add a burst of citrus aroma and a visually stunning touch.
Create a balanced composition: Use the chickpeas to create a visually pleasing balance on the plate, adding texture and depth to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Allow the stew to be the focal point of the plate by using negative space to create a visually striking and elegant presentation.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the stew and enhances the overall presentation.
Maintain cleanliness and precision: Ensure that the plate is clean and free of any spills or smudges, presenting a professional and polished appearance.
Emphasize the aroma: Present the dish in a way that allows the aromatic scents of the stew to waft gently towards the judges, enticing them before they even take a bite.
Highlight the cumin seeds: Sprinkle a few whole or crushed cumin seeds on top of the stew to showcase the key ingredient and add a touch of visual interest.
Use complementary serving utensils: Select serving utensils that complement the overall presentation and enhance the dining experience for the judges.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Stew Recipe
- Large enameled cast-iron casserole: A large, heavy-duty pot with a durable enamel coating, ideal for slow cooking and braising.
- Mortar: A bowl made of hard material, typically ceramic or stone, used with a pestle for grinding spices and herbs.
- Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes that allow liquids to drain away, making it perfect for lifting solid ingredients from liquids.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients, available in various sizes and materials such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
How To Store and Freeze Pork and Chickpea Stew for Later
Allow the pork and chickpea stew to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to freezer burn or spoilage.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop and meld together, making the stew even more delicious when reheated.
To freeze the stew, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled stew into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to minimize freezer burn.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
- The frozen pork and chickpea stew will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen stew, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you need to thaw it more quickly, place the container or bag in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the stew is thawed.
Reheat the thawed stew in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add a little water or broth if needed to thin the consistency.
Avoid refreezing the stew once it has been thawed, as this can negatively impact the texture and quality of the pork and chickpeas.
How To Reheat Leftovers
- Reheat the pork and chickpea stew in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer and the pork is heated through. This method ensures even heating and allows the flavors to meld together once again.
- If the stew seems too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out slightly. The liquid will help loosen the stew and make it easier to reheat without burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- For a quicker reheating method, transfer individual portions of the stew to microwave-safe bowls. Cover the bowls with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters and help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the stew is heated to your desired temperature.
- If you have stored the pork and chickpeas separately from the broth, reheat the broth in a saucepan until simmering, then add the pork and chickpeas. This method allows you to control the texture of the pork and chickpeas, preventing them from becoming overcooked or mushy.
- For a crispy twist, shred the leftover pork and spread it on a baking sheet. Broil the pork for 2-3 minutes, or until it develops a crispy exterior. Reheat the chickpeas and broth separately, then serve the crispy pork on top for a delightful contrast of textures.
- To infuse extra flavor into the reheated stew, add a fresh squeeze of orange juice and a pinch of cumin just before serving. These bright, citrusy notes will enhance the existing flavors and give the dish a newfound vibrancy.
- If you have a sous vide machine, place the sealed bag of leftover stew in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the pork is heated through. This gentle reheating method ensures the pork remains tender and the flavors are preserved.
Random Fact About Pork and Chickpea Stew with Orange and Cumin
Pork and chickpea stew with orange and cumin is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of pork with the earthy taste of cumin and the citrusy notes of orange. This stew is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. It's a perfect dish for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. The combination of flavors and aromas in this stew creates a truly memorable dining experience. Whether enjoyed with a side of white rice or on its own, this stew is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
Is Making This Stew Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
The cost-effectiveness of this pork and chickpea stew with orange and cumin recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as pork shoulder, chickpeas, and orange juice, are relatively affordable and can be found in most households. The dish offers a hearty and flavorful meal for a family of four, with an approximate cost of $20. The combination of protein, fiber, and citrus flavors makes it a nutritious and satisfying option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is This Stew Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pork and chickpea stew recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like lean pork, chickpeas (a good source of fiber and plant-based protein), onion, garlic, and orange juice. The use of extra virgin olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats. However, the recipe also has some drawbacks. The large amount of pork shoulder used (3 lbs) contributes to a high saturated fat content. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and healthy meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of pork shoulder and replace some of it with more chickpeas or other legumes to increase the fiber and plant-based protein content while decreasing the saturated fat
- Add a variety of colorful vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and spinach to boost the nutrient density and provide essential vitamins and minerals
- Use low-sodium broth instead of water to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive salt
- Serve the stew with a side of whole grains like brown rice or quinoa to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates to the meal
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor and antioxidants
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Stew Recipe
This pork and chickpea stew with orange and cumin recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of tender pork, earthy chickpeas, and vibrant orange creates a rich and aromatic stew. The use of cumin adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness of the orange. The dish is well-balanced and comforting, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner. The make-ahead option adds convenience without sacrificing flavor. This recipe showcases a harmonious blend of ingredients and is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and complexity.
Why trust this Pork and Chickpea Stew with Orange and Cumin Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining succulent pork shoulder with hearty chickpeas and a burst of citrus from orange juice and zest. The aromatic touch of cumin seeds adds depth to the stew, while the use of extra virgin olive oil infuses richness. The methodical cooking process ensures tender, flavorful results. With its balanced blend of ingredients, this dish promises to satisfy and impress. Trust in the harmonious combination of ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe for a memorable dining experience.
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