When it comes to hearty, comforting dishes that warm the soul, few cuisines can rival the rich flavors and bold ingredients of Spain. One of the most beloved and iconic dishes from this Mediterranean country is the humble Spanish pork stew, also known as “Cocido de Cerdo.” This slow-cooked masterpiece is a staple of many Spanish households, particularly during special occasions and celebrations.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Spanish pork stews and explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and complexity of this beloved dish. From classic combinations featuring chorizo and paprika to innovative twists incorporating chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and kale, these recipes are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Classic Spanish Pork Stew with Chorizo
Classic Spanish Pork Stew with Chorizo
Savor the bold flavors of Spain with this hearty pork stew made with chorizo, potatoes, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 slices chorizo, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add chorizo and cook, breaking apart with spoon, until crispy, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, potatoes, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Return pork to pot.
6. Bring stew to a simmer and cook, covered, until pork is tender, about 30-35 minutes.
Cooking time: approximately 45-50 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Slow-Cooked Spanish Pork Stew with Paprika
This hearty stew is a staple of Spanish cuisine, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a weekend brunch. Tender pork, rich flavors, and a hint of smokiness from the paprika will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add pork back into the pot, along with diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and red wine (if using).
6. Bring to a simmer; cover and transfer to oven.
7. Braise at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spanish Pork Stew with Chickpeas and Spinach
This hearty stew is a flavorful combination of tender pork, creamy chickpeas, and nutritious spinach, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.
5. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Andalusian-Style Pork Stew with Olives
This hearty stew hails from the southern region of Andalusia, where rich flavors and bold spices come together to create a comforting and savory dish. With its tender pork, briny olives, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add olives, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to pot, add chicken broth and wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spanish Pork Stew with Bell Peppers and Tomatoes
This hearty and flavorful stew is a classic Spanish dish that combines tender pork, sweet bell peppers, and tangy tomatoes. Serve it over crusty bread or with some crusty olives for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in tomatoes, chicken broth, and smoked paprika.
6. Return the pork to the pot; simmer for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanish Pork Stew with Saffron and Potatoes
This hearty stew is a staple of Spanish cuisine, combining tender pork, rich saffron flavor, and creamy potatoes. Perfect for a chilly evening, this comforting dish will warm your belly and your heart.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and potatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and saffron mixture. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Spanish Pork Stew with White Beans and Chorizo
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender pork, creamy white beans, and spicy chorizo sausage, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), soaked overnight and drained
– 1 Spanish chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and chorizo; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add white beans, bell pepper, tomatoes, broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to the pot, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Spanish Pork Stew with Pimentón and Garlic
This hearty stew is a classic Spanish dish that combines the rich flavors of pork, pimentón (smoked paprika), and garlic. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup pimentón (smoked paprika)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove pork from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in pimentón, chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Bring mixture to a boil.
4. Return pork to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spanish Pork Stew with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork, sweet potatoes, and kale for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes, chicken broth, white wine (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to the pot, cover, and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
7. Stir in kale leaves; cook until wilted, about 10 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spanish Pork Stew with Red Wine and Mushrooms
Savor the rich flavors of Spain with this hearty pork stew, slow-cooked in red wine and infused with earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Rioja or Tempranillo)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork cubes in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add red wine, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to pot; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spanish Pork Stew with Artichokes and Peas
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of pork with the sweetness of artichokes and peas, all wrapped up in a delicious Spanish-inspired broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 artichoke heart, quartered
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, artichoke heart, peas, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until pork is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Spanish Pork Stew with Roasted Red Peppers
This hearty stew combines tender pork, flavorful vegetables, and sweet roasted red peppers for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss pork with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, potatoes, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add roasted pork to the pot and stir to coat with vegetables and sauce.
6. Bring stew to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanish Pork Stew with Smoked Paprika and Onions
Spanish Pork Stew with Smoked Paprika and Onions: A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender pork, sweet onions, and a depth of smoky flavor from smoked paprika. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and garlic; cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the browned pork back into the pot, along with chicken broth and red wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spanish Pork Stew with Cumin and Carrots
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender pork, crunchy carrots, and aromatic cumin. This Spanish-inspired dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork cubes, then remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add carrots, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and browned pork; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Spanish Pork Stew with Green Beans and Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of Spain with this hearty pork stew, infused with tender green beans and potatoes. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork, onions, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, green beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanish Pork Stew with Chorizo and Lentils
This hearty stew combines tender pork, spicy chorizo, and nutritious lentils in a rich and flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 Spanish chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown pork and chorizo for 5 minutes, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork and chorizo to the pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanish Pork Stew with Tomatoes and Green Olives
Spanish Pork Stew with Tomatoes and Green Olives Recipe
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender pork, juicy tomatoes, and briny green olives for a deliciously authentic Spanish dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add onions and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, green olives, smoked paprika, saffron with its liquid, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add the browned pork back into the pot, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Spanish Pork Stew with Rosemary and Thyme
This hearty stew is a classic Spanish dish that combines tender pork, aromatic rosemary and thyme, and rich vegetables. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork pieces on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, white wine (if using), rosemary, and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Return pork to the pot, cover, and transfer to oven. Simmer at 300°F for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Spain with these 18 delicious pork stew recipes. From classic combinations like chorizo and paprika to innovative twists featuring chickpeas, spinach, and sweet potatoes, there’s something for every taste. Discover bold and aromatic stews that warm the senses, such as those with saffron, pimentón, and garlic, or heartier options with beans, lentils, and red wine. Whatever your preference, these mouth-watering recipes will transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Spain.
