Romanian Stew
A hearty Romanian stew featuring tender pork chops topped with rice, onions, and peppers in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lay pork chops in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Place 4 tablespoons of uncooked rice on each chop, then add 1 tablespoon chopped onion and 1 tablespoon green pepper on each chop.
- Pour the large can of tomato puree over the pork chops and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
- Add warm water during baking if necessary to maintain moisture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in garlic and herbs before baking. If you're short on rice, quinoa or couscous can be a great substitute. You can also add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables. For a twist, try using the tomato puree from Eula'S Chicken Gumbo to enhance the stew's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Romanian stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with German Potato Salad(Low-Fat) or a simple green salad to balance the dish. For a hearty meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, covered, in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Romanian Stew contains roughly 382 calories, with 10g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken or beef, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Chicken thighs work particularly well, offering a tender texture. If using beef, consider using chuck roast for a flavorful result.
What can I do if the stew is too dry during baking?
If the stew looks dry while baking, simply add warm water or broth around the edges of the casserole dish. Covering the dish with foil for part of the baking time can also help retain moisture and prevent the top from drying out.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew up to a day in advance. Just assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).