Portuguese Pork and Clams Stew

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 500g (1.1 lb) clams, scrubbed and rinsed 500g (1.1 lb) clams, scrubbed and rinsed
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup white wine 1 cup white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 9g, 1g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the pork, minced garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated with the spices. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol.
4. 4.
   Add the chicken broth, bay leaf, and chopped cilantro to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the pork is tender.
5. 5.
   Add the clams to the pot and cover. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the clams have opened.
6. 6.
   Discard any clams that have not opened. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Portuguese Pork and Clams Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shoulder — Choose a well-marbled cut of pork shoulder for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Clams — Make sure to discard any clams that are cracked or do not close when tapped. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any sand or grit.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped fresh chili pepper.
• Serve the stew with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of acidity.
• If clams are not available, you can substitute them with mussels or shrimp.
• Make sure to have plenty of crusty bread on hand to soak up the delicious broth.
• This stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance for enhanced flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Portuguese Pork and Clams Stew in individual bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with crusty bread to fully enjoy the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Present the stew in a rustic clay pot or a deep serving dish to showcase its traditional roots. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a pop of color.