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Diary of a Foodie

Pork Stew with Many Latin Roots

Diary of a Foodie: Season Three: Ancient Traditions

Serves6
  • Active time:35 min
  • Start to finish:1 1/4 hr
January 2009
Watch a clip of this Diary of a Foodie episode and view its accompanying recipes. Plus, explore all episodes and more recipes from the show.
  • 2 1/2 to 3 lb yuca, boniato, and/or malanga
  • 3 or 4 small purple potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 lb boneless pork loin or butt, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh chile (red or green), such as serrano or jalapeño, including seeds
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 7 to 8 cups chicken stock or reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Garnish:

    cilantro leaves
  • Peel root vegetables (remove bitter underlayer if using yuca) and remove any tough cores, then dice. Generously cover with cold water in a large bowl. Cut potatoes into large chunks to expose purple flesh and add to water.
  • Heat oil in a Dutch oven or other large heavy pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Season pork all over with 1/4 tsp each of salt and pepper, then brown on all sides, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a plate.
  • Pour off all but 1 Tbsp fat from skillet, then add onion and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5 to 7 minutes. Add garlic, chile, paprika, and cumin and cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute
  • Add chicken stock, drained root vegetables, and pork and bring to a boil. Simmer briskly over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until liquid has thickened and pork and vegetables are tender, 40 to 45 minutes. Stir in lime juice and salt and pepper to taste.