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Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

Written By: Byron | November 21, 2024
A bowl of Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

Today, we learn how to cook Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes (with a special guest Sous chef to help ❤️🐶- See the YouTube cooking video). This recipe is an easy, no-fuss stew that’s loaded with pork and delicious Spanish pancetta and potatoes. 

This recipe is the ideal Sunday stew that’s the kind of recipe that’s ideally left to slowly simmer away on the stovetop. Prep work is minimal, simply chop your veg and meat, prep a herb bundle, and add all the ingredients to a large pot to simmer away for a few hours. This easy stew recipe can also be cooked in a crockpot or slow cooker.

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Serving:

Main for 6-8

Ready in:

Around 2 hours

Skill level:

Very easy

Serve with:

Bread, mash potatoes

Watch step-by-step recipe video

If you’re looking for this recipe’s video and many other great recipe ideas, why not check out our Spanish Radish YouTube Channel? We’ve got everything from quick and easy tapas recipes to delicious main meals, to incredible Spanish dessert options too.

How to Cook Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

Ingredients

  • 28oz. (800g) potatoes, cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 21oz. (600g) pork, cubed into 1-inch (2.5cm ) pieces
  • 5oz. (150g) Pancetta Ibérico, cut into small chunks
  • 3.5oz. (100g) Serrano Ham (either slices or a large piece)
  • 1 large red onion, sliced fine
  • 4 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 jar roasted Piquillo Peppers (200ml)
  • Can of crushed tomatoes (approx. 250ml)
  • 4 garlic cloves, loosely chopped
  • 150ml white wine (or red wine)
  • 10 threads of Saffron
  • 1 tablespoon Jerez Sherry Vinegar (for the saffron)
  • 1 Tbsp Spanish La Vera smoked paprika
  • 6 sprigs of fresh thyme
  • 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • ⅓ cup Green Olives (optional)
  • 4 cups water ( or chicken broth)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
    A large pot of stew waits to be cooked

    Instructions

    Step 1 – Prep Veggies and Meat

    • Cut all the veg into bite-size pieces, around 1 inch (2.5cm). Slice the onion into rounds or half rounds and add to a large pot.
    • Loosely chop the garlic and add to the pot. 
    • Cube the pork into pieces of the same size as the veg and add them to the pot. 
    • Slice the pancetta into small ¼ inch strips and stred the Serrano ham slices, add them to the pot.
    • (Note: If using a whole piece of serrano ham, cut into small ¼-inch cubes). 

    Step 2 – Add herbs, wine, and liquids

    • Bundle the fresh rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves and tie together with string. (This tip makes removing the herb bundle easier once the cooking is finished). 
    • Add the smoked paprika, wine, water or chicken broth, and crushed tomatoes.

    Step 3 – infuse the saffron

    • Add the saffron threads and one tablespoon of Sherry vinegar to a small bowl. 
    • Swirl the bowl and once the vinegar has infused with the saffron (around 2 minutes) it will be a rich yellow color. Add it all to the pot. 

    Step 4 – Simmer and serve

    • Cover pot and bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and leave to simmer covered for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. 
    • Once the stew is ready, serve in large bowls and garnish with some freshly chopped parsley. Best served alongside some fresh bread to mop up the delicious stew.

    Cooking Tips: 

    Simmering time

    Simmer for at least 1-2 hours, or longer for best results. If you have the time, this recipe works great when simmered 4-5 hours as the fat in the pancetta reduces and makes the pork very tender and flavorful. If using a crockpot or slow cooker, use a low setting and cook for 7-8 hours. 

    Go easy on the seasoning

    Serrano ham is a cured ham that has a strong flavor. It is very salty; when added to this recipe, you won’t need to add much more salt for seasoning. Be sure to taste it before seasoning with any additional salt. 

    Use chicken or Pork stock/broth instead of water

    Add layers of flavor with a rich homemade chicken stock or broth. 

    Infuse the saffron

    Use vinegar or lemon juice to infuse the saffron before adding to any recipe. It only takes around 2-3 minutes for the saffron threads to release their vibrant color.

    Pancetta Ibérico

    Pancetta Ibérico is thre Spanish version of Italian Pancetta. It is prepared in the same way as Italian-style pancetta however it uses the prized Iberian pork from the Iberico pig breed (also used to make delicious jamon Ibérico). If you can’t source Spanish Pancetta Ibérico, ask your local butcher for some good quality Italian Pancetta instead.

    Discover more about the different types of Spanish ham with this complete guide:

    Explore the Gastronomic Delights of Spanish Ham: Jamón Ibérico, Jamón Serrano, and Gran Reservas

    A bowl of Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

    Quick, Easy, and Cheap to Make Stew

    This Spanish Pork stew is a fantastic way to make a rich and filling meal for large groups. 

    It is a great way to stretch out smaller meat portions that can be expensive and bulk up the meal with lots of veg and a delicious homemade sauce or stew gravy. 

    This recipe will make around 8 servings, which can be stretched out to 10-12 servings if you serve the stew with lots of fresh bread (or even some steamed rice or mashed potatoes). 

    How to Cook Stew Meat in a Crockpot/Slow Cooker

    Cooking meat in a Crockpot/Slow Cooker is very easy and doesn’t require any additional cooking or browning. Simply add the diced stew meat into bite-sized pieces (around 1-inch 2.5cm) and add to your crockpot with a selection of veggies, seasoning, and some broth or water. 

    Browning Stew Meat

    Browning meat is an optional step (we suggest doing it if you have the time) and it does offer a few advantages. 

    Flavor Boost:

    • Browning the meat caramelizes its surface, creating a deep, savory flavor (thanks to the Maillard reaction). This enhances the overall taste of the dish.

    Better Texture:

    • Searing gives the meat a nice crust, which helps it maintain its shape during slow cooking, instead of becoming overly soft or mushy.

    Richer Sauce:

    • The browned bits (fond) left in the pan after searing can be deglazed with broth, wine, or water and added to the crockpot for a more flavorful base.

      Cooking times for crockpots and slow cookers

      • Low: Cook for 7–8 hours.
      • High: Cook for 4–5 hours.

      Cooking time for Stovetop simmer

      • Very low simmer: 3-4 hours
      • Medium simmer: 1-2 hours
        A bowl of Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

        How to Get the Most Tender Stew Meat

        The best tips for getting soft tender stewing meat are simple: Choose the right cut of meat, and cook it slow and low. 

        Choose the Right Cut of Meat

        • Use cuts like chuck, brisket, or round. These have more connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking, resulting in tender meat.
        • Avoid lean cuts (like sirloin) as they tend to dry out or become chewy in a stew.

        Cut the Meat Properly

        • Cut the meat into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
        • Slice against the grain to shorten muscle fibers, making the meat easier to chew.

        Don’t Rush the Cooking Time

        • Low and slow is the key to tender stew meat:
          • Low heat (crockpot on low or stovetop simmer): Cook for 7–8 hours.
          • Oven braise: 300°F (150°C) for 2.5–3 hours.
        • Cooking too fast at high heat toughens the meat.

        Add Enough Liquid

        • Ensure there’s enough broth, wine, or other liquid to partially submerge the meat. Moist cooking methods like braising break down tough connective tissue.
        A bowl of Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

        Best Pork Cuts for Stews

        1. Pork Shoulder (Pork Butt or Boston Butt)

        • Why it’s great: Pork shoulder is marbled with fat and has plenty of connective tissue, which makes it perfect for slow cooking. As it cooks, the fat melts, and the connective tissue breaks down, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
        • Tips: Trim excess fat if needed and cut into uniform chunks.

        2. Pork Picnic Shoulder

        • Why it’s great: Similar to the pork shoulder, this cut has a bit more bone and less marbling, but it’s equally good for stewing. It’s a budget-friendly option.
        • Tips: Remove the bone if desired or leave it in for extra flavor.

        3. Pork Loin Roast (for leaner stews)

        • Why it’s great: Pork loin roast is leaner than the shoulder but still works in stews, especially if you prefer less fatty meat.
        • Tips: Be cautious not to overcook, as this cut can become dry if not cooked properly. Add extra liquid or braising to keep it moist.

        4. Pork Belly

        • Why it’s great: Pork belly adds a rich, unctuous texture to stews, especially in Asian-style recipes. The fat renders beautifully, and the meat becomes meltingly tender.
        • Tips: Use in moderation to avoid the stew becoming too fatty.

            Nutrition Facts

            Servings: 8

            Amount per serving

             

            Calories

            262

            % Daily Value*

            Total Fat 5.5g

            7%

            Saturated Fat 1.3g

            7%

            Cholesterol 50mg

            17%

            Sodium 631mg

            27%

            Total Carbohydrate 29.3g

            11%

            Dietary Fiber 5.5g

            20%

            Total Sugars 7.9g

             

            Protein 23.1g

             

            Vitamin D 0mcg

            0%

            Calcium 64mg

            5%

            Iron 3mg

            18%

            Potassium 1182mg

            25%

            *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.

                  A bowl of Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes
                  A bowl of Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

                  Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes (Super Easy - 10 Minutes Prep)

                  Byron
                  This recipe is the ideal Sunday stew, prep work is minimal, simply chop your veg and meat, prep a herb bundle, and add all the ingredients to a large pot to simmer away for a few hours, stirring occasionally. This easy stew recipe can also be cooked in a crockpot or slow cooker.
                  5 from 1 vote
                  Prep Time 10 minutes
                  Cook Time 2 hours
                  Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
                  Course casserole, Main Course, meat, stew
                  Cuisine Mediterranean, Spain
                  Servings 8 Main
                  Calories 262 kcal

                  Equipment

                  • Large pot with lid
                  • Wooden cutting board
                  • Chef knife
                  • Clay dish (for serving)
                  • Ladle

                  Ingredients

                  • 28 oz. 800g potatoes, cubed into 1-inch pieces
                  • 21 oz. 600g pork, cubed into 1-inch (2.5cm ) pieces
                  • 5 oz. 150g Pancetta Ibérico, cut into small chunks
                  • 3.5 oz. 100g Serrano Ham (either slices or a large piece)
                  • 1 large red onion sliced fine
                  • 4 carrots cut into 1-inch pieces
                  • cup green Olives optional
                  • 1 jar roasted Piquillo Peppers 200ml
                  • Can of crushed tomatoes approx. 250ml
                  • 4 garlic cloves loosely chopped
                  • 150 ml white wine or red wine
                  • 10 threads of Saffron
                  • 1 tablespoon Jerez Sherry Vinegar for the saffron
                  • 1 Tbsp Spanish La Vera smoked paprika
                  • 6 sprigs of fresh thyme
                  • 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
                  • 2 bay leaves
                  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
                  • Salt and pepper to taste
                  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

                  Instructions
                   

                  Step 1 - Prep Veggies and Meat

                  • Cut all the veg into bite-size pieces, around 1 inch (2.5cm). Slice the onion into rounds or half rounds and add to a large pot.
                    28 oz. 800g potatoes, cubed into 1-inch pieces, 1 large red onion, 4 carrots, ⅓ cup green Olives, 1 jar roasted Piquillo Peppers
                  • Loosely chop the garlic and add to the pot.
                    4 garlic cloves
                  • Cube the pork into pieces of the same size as the veg and add them to the pot.
                    21 oz. 600g pork, cubed into 1-inch (2.5cm ) pieces
                  • Slice the pancetta into small ¼ inch strips and stred the Serrano ham slices, add them to the pot.
                    5 oz. 150g Pancetta Ibérico, cut into small chunks, 3.5 oz. 100g Serrano Ham (either slices or a large piece)
                  • (Note: If using a whole piece of serrano ham, cut into small ¼-inch cubes).

                  Step 2 - Add herbs, wine, and liquids

                  • Bundle the fresh rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves and tie together with string. (This tip makes removing the herb bundle easier once the cooking is finished).
                    6 sprigs of fresh thyme, 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, 2 bay leaves
                  • Add the smoked paprika, wine, water or chicken broth, and crushed tomatoes.
                    Can of crushed tomatoes, 150 ml white wine, 1 Tbsp Spanish La Vera smoked paprika, 4 cups water, Salt and pepper

                  Step 3 - infuse the saffron

                  • Add the saffron threads and one tablespoon of Sherry vinegar to a small bowl.
                    10 threads of Saffron, 1 tablespoon Jerez Sherry Vinegar
                  • Swirl the bowl and once the vinegar has infused with the saffron (around 2 minutes) it will be a rich yellow color. Add it all to the pot.

                  Step 4 - Simmer and serve

                  • Cover pot and bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and leave to simmer covered for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
                  • Once the stew is ready, serve in large bowls and garnish with some freshly chopped parsley. Best served alongside some fresh bread to mop up the delicious stew.
                    Fresh chopped parsley

                  Video

                  Notes

                  Cooking Tips: 

                  Simmering time
                  Simmer for at least 1-2 hours, or longer for best results. If you have the time, this recipe works great when simmered 4-5 hours as the fat in the pancetta reduces and makes the pork very tender and flavorful. If using a crockpot or slow cooker, use a low setting and cook for 7-8 hours. 
                  Go easy on the seasoning
                  Serrano ham is a cured ham that has a strong flavor. It is very salty; when added to this recipe, you won't need to add much more salt for seasoning. Be sure to taste it before seasoning with any additional salt. 
                  Use chicken or Pork stock/broth instead of water
                  Add layers of flavor with a rich homemade chicken stock or broth. 
                  Infuse the saffron
                  Use vinegar or lemon juice to infuse the saffron before adding to any recipe. It only takes around 2-3 minutes for the saffron threads to release their vibrant color.
                  Pancetta Ibérico
                  Pancetta Ibérico is thre Spanish version of Italian Pancetta. It is prepared in the same way as Italian-style pancetta however it uses the prized Iberian pork from the Iberico pig breed (also used to make delicious jamon Ibérico). If you can’t source Spanish Pancetta Ibérico, ask your local butcher for some good quality Italian Pancetta instead.

                  Cooking times for crockpots and slow cookers

                  • Low: Cook for 7–8 hours.
                  • High: Cook for 4–5 hours.

                  Cooking time for Stovetop simmer

                  • Very low simmer: 3-4 hours
                  • Medium simmer: 1-2 hours
                  Keyword Easy Dinner ideas, easy stew, graham crackers, pancetta, pancetta iberica, pork, Pork stew, Potatoes, serrano ham, Spanish pork stew
                  A bowl of Spanish Pork Stew with Pancetta and Potatoes

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                  2 Comments

                  1. James

                    5 stars
                    I absolutely loved it. It’s so easy and turns out so flavorsome when you leave it to simmer for 3 hours. I will make it again!

                    Reply
                    • Byron

                      Great to hear James! So glad you enjoyed this recipe. All the best and happy cooking!

                      Reply

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