This braised pork ragu recipe is a must-try if you are a fan of Italian flavors. The slow cooking process makes the pork tender and juicy, while the combination of herbs and spices gives it a rich and savory taste. Serve this hearty dish with your favorite pasta or crusty bread for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, until it starts to darken.
- Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Return the browned pork to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and easily shreds apart.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard.
- Using two forks, shred the pork into small pieces.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve the braised pork ragu over your favorite pasta or with crusty bread.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Interesting Facts
Braised pork ragu is a classic Italian dish that originated in the region of Emilia-Romagna.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a deliciously rich and hearty sauce.
Leftovers of this braised pork ragu make for a flavorful topping on pizzas or as a filling for sandwiches.
This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker. Simply transfer all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
The addition of red wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce, but you can also substitute it with beef broth if desired.