Venture into the heart of Latin cuisine with this hearty and flavorful Pork and Black Bean Stew. This recipe features tender morsels of pork, robust chorizo sausage, and velvety black beans mingled together in a savory broth. Enjoy this nourishing stew as a warming midweek dinner, or make it the star of your next dinner party.
The chorizo sausage, an essential ingredient for this recipe, is a type of pork sausage that's known for its rich, smoky flavor derived from dried smoked red peppers. If not readily available in your local grocery store, it can be found in specialty food stores or online. Chorizo lends a deep, smoky flavor that complements the earthy black beans and the tender, juicy pork.
Ingredients for Pork and Black Bean Stew
Vegetable oil: Used for frying the garlic, onion, and pork. It has a neutral flavor that won't interfere with the flavors of the other ingredients.
Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor to the stew and goes well with the other ingredients.
Onion: Enhances the flavor profile of the stew, creating a savory depth.
Pork tenderloin: The main protein of the stew. It's tender and juicy when cooked properly.
Black beans: They are earthy, hearty, and a great source of protein and fiber.
Water: Used to help puree the black beans and to adjust the stew's consistency.
Chicken stock: Adds a savory depth to the stew, enhancing the flavor of the pork and beans.
Chorizo sausages: Adds a smoky, spicy flavor to the stew. It's a key ingredient in many Latin dishes.
Bay leaves: Adds a subtle bittersweet flavor. They are removed before serving.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the flavors of the stew.
One reader, Carma Monson says:
This pork and black bean stew recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the pork is so tender. The combination of black beans and chorizo adds a delightful depth to the dish. It's a definite winner for a cozy night in. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Preparing Pork and Black Bean Stew
How to brown pork: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add cubed pork, and cook until well browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
How to puree black beans: Pour ¾ of the black beans along with ¼ cup of water into a blender, then pulse until finely chopped, but not quite smooth.
How to season to taste: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
How To Make Pork and Black Bean Stew
Make a filling and hearty stew for dinner! This pork and black bean stew is rich and flavorful with bits of chorizo sausage too. Try this recipe now!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspvegetable oil
- 1tspgarlic,minced
- 1large onion,chopped
- 12ozpork tenderloin,(1 piece) cut into ½-inch cubes
- 19ozblack beans,(1 can) drained and rinsed
- ¼cupwater
- 1 ½cupschicken stock
- 3chorizo sausages,cut into ½-inch thick pieces
- 2bay leaves
- salt and pepper,to taste
Instructions
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Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic and onion, then cook for a few minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent.
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Remove the onion, and place into a saucepan. Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil into the skillet, and place over medium-high heat. Add cubed pork, and cook until well browned.
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Meanwhile, pour ¾ of the black beans along with ¼ cup of water into the bowl of a blender, and pulse until finely chopped, but not quite smooth.
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Pour whole beans and bean puree into saucepan along with pork cubes, chicken stock, chorizo, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
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Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 784.38kcal
- Fat: 19.56g
- Saturated Fat: 4.20g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.63g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.88g
- Carbohydrates: 97.61g
- Fiber: 22.01g
- Sugar: 8.43g
- Protein: 56.23g
- Cholesterol: 75.61mg
- Sodium: 1256.66mg
- Calcium: 199.88mg
- Potassium: 2721.59mg
- Iron: 8.66mg
- Vitamin A: 8.83µg
- Vitamin C: 3.61mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Stew
When cooking the pork cubes, ensure they are browned evenly on all sides. This not only enhances the flavor through caramelization but also locks in the juices, keeping the meat tender and succulent. Also, when blending the black beans, avoid over-processing them. You want a slightly chunky texture to add depth and interest to your stew.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Stew Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned black beans to save time on soaking and cooking dried beans.
Invest in a pressure cooker: A pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time for the pork and black bean stew.
Multi-task: While the stew is simmering, use that time to prepare side dishes or clean up the kitchen.
Leftovers for the win: Make a larger batch and enjoy the stew as leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
Substitute Ingredients For Pork and Black Bean Stew Recipe
pork tenderloin - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that can be used as a substitute for pork tenderloin in stews. It will add richness and depth to the dish.
black beans - Substitute with kidney beans: Kidney beans have a similar texture and taste to black beans, making them a suitable substitute in this stew recipe. They will provide a creamy texture and hearty flavor.
Presentation Tips for Serving Pork and Black Bean Stew
Elevate the plating: When presenting the stew, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a large, shallow bowl to showcase the stew and its vibrant colors. Ensure that the pork, black beans, and chorizo are evenly distributed for a balanced presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Sprinkle the herbs over the stew just before serving to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of brightness.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish to provide contrast. A sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips on top of the stew can add a delightful textural component to each bite.
Use complementary side dishes: Pair the stew with a side of fluffy white rice or a warm, crusty bread roll. The side dishes should complement the flavors of the stew and enhance the overall dining experience.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Aim for clean lines and a polished presentation, ensuring that every element is thoughtfully arranged to showcase the stew's ingredients and flavors.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stew Recipes
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pot with a handle and a lid, used for boiling, stewing, and making sauces.
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, puree, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Cutting board: A durable board used to protect surfaces when cutting or preparing food.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
- Measuring cup: A container used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small quantities of ingredients accurately.
- Wooden spoon: A cooking utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving.
- Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating food.
- Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping, beating, and stirring ingredients.
- Skimmer: A utensil with a perforated surface used for skimming foam or solids from the surface of liquids.
- Can opener: A tool used for opening cans and tins.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining liquids from food.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate or shred ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
- Peeler: A tool used to remove the outer skin or peel of fruits and vegetables.
- Tenderizer: A kitchen tool used to tenderize meat by breaking down its fibers.
- Thermometer: A device used to measure the temperature of food or cooking oil.
- Cutting shears: Scissors used for cutting and trimming herbs, vegetables, and meat.
- Basting brush: A tool used for applying sauces, marinades, or melted butter to food.
- Grill pan: A pan with raised ridges used for grilling and creating grill marks on food.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Pork and Black Bean Stew
Allow the pork and black bean stew to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to spoilage.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as the stew sits, making it even more delicious when reheated.
To freeze the stew, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Label the containers with the date and contents, and freeze 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 in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the stew is thawed.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer and is heated through. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and serve hot with your favorite accompaniments, such as rice, crusty bread, or tortillas.
If you find that the stew has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out with a little chicken stock or water when reheating. Conversely, if the stew seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and concentrate the flavors.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Stew
Stovetop method: Transfer the leftover pork and black bean stew to a saucepan. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the consistency. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the stew is heated through and simmering gently. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensures even reheating.
Microwave method: Place the desired portion of leftover pork and black bean stew in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the stew is heated through. Be careful when removing the cover, as steam may escape.
Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pork and black bean stew to an oven-safe dish and cover it with a lid or aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the stew is heated through. Stir the stew halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Slow cooker method: If you have a larger portion of leftover pork and black bean stew, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the stew to the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let the stew reheat for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal for reheating larger quantities and helps maintain the stew's moisture.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the pork and black bean stew occasionally to promote even heating and prevent scorching. Also, ensure that the stew reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Interesting Trivia About Pork and Black Bean Stew
Pork and black bean stew is a traditional dish in many Latin American countries, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings.
Budget-Friendly: Is This Stew Recipe Economical?
This pork and black bean stew recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are relatively affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly option. The combination of pork tenderloin, black beans, and chorizo sausages provides a hearty and satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is This Stew Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pork and black bean stew recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Here's a breakdown:
Healthy:
- Black beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various nutrients
- Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, providing protein without excessive saturated fat
- Onions and garlic offer flavor and some health benefits
Unhealthy:
- Chorizo sausages are high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess
- The recipe doesn't include a significant amount of vegetables, limiting the variety of nutrients
To make this recipe healthier, I suggest the following modifications:
- Replace the chorizo sausages with a leaner protein source, such as chicken or turkey sausage, to reduce the saturated fat content
- Add more vegetables to the stew, such as diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
- Serve the stew with a side of leafy greens or a fresh salad to further boost the nutrient intake
By making these adjustments, you can transform this stew into a more balanced and nutritious meal while still enjoying the delicious flavors of the pork and black beans.
Our Editor's Opinion on This Pork and Black Bean Stew
This pork and black bean stew recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender pork, savory chorizo, and hearty black beans creates a rich and satisfying stew. The addition of garlic and onion adds depth to the dish, while the bay leaves infuse a subtle earthy aroma. The use of chicken stock enhances the overall savory profile, and the pureed black beans contribute a velvety texture. Overall, this stew is a comforting and hearty dish that is sure to please the palate.
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Why trust this Pork and Black Bean Stew Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The tender pork tenderloin is complemented by the rich, earthy black beans and savory chorizo sausages. The addition of garlic and onion provides aromatic depth, while the blend of chicken stock and bay leaves infuses the stew with a robust, comforting essence. The use of vegetable oil ensures a balanced cooking process, resulting in a harmonious dish that promises to tantalize the taste buds.
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