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Rustic Pork Stew with Garlic Sauce – A Hearty Romanian Delight

Ingredients
    For the Pork Stew:
  • Pork slices (cut into medium-sized cubes)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 slices of smoked salami or smoked bacon (optional)
  • Lard or sunflower oil (for frying)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (or hot paprika, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup water
  • For the Garlic Sauce (Mușdei):
  • 5 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt (generous pinch)
  • A few tablespoons of cold water
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
  1. Prepare the Pork:
    1. Cut the pork into medium cubes – not too small, not too large.
    2. Heat lard or sunflower oil in a pan.
    3. Add the pork cubes and sear them until lightly browned on all sides.
  2. Build the Stew:
    1. Once the meat has some color, add the sliced smoked salami or bacon (if using).
    2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it softens.
    3. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
    4. Pour in 1/2 cup of water, cover with a lid, and let simmer on low heat until the meat becomes tender (about 30–40 minutes).
  3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
    1. Grate or crush the garlic into a bowl.
    2. Add olive oil, a good pinch of salt, and mix well.
    3. Gradually add a few tablespoons of cold water to loosen the mixture.
    4. Stir in chopped fresh parsley.