Cooking With Beer, Whiskey and Spirits

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into large chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup red wine (dry variety like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for added richness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare and Sear the Pork:
   • Season the pork chunks with salt and pepper.
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the pork on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to build flavor.
3. Deglaze with Red Wine:
   • Pour in the red wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add Broth, Pork, and Herbs:
   • Return the pork to the pot and add the beef or chicken broth, mushrooms, thyme sprigs, rosemary sprig, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
5. Braise the Pork:
   • Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well developed. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
6. Finish with Butter (Optional):
   • For added richness, stir in the butter during the last few minutes of cooking. Remove the thyme sprigs, rosemary sprig, and bay leaf.
7. Serve:
   • Transfer the pork and sauce to a serving dish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.

This Red Wine-Braised Pork with Mushrooms and Herbs is rich and flavorful, with the wine adding depth to the tender pork and earthy mushrooms. It’s a perfect comfort meal for a cozy night in!