Pork Agrodolce

Sweet and Tangy Pork Agrodolce: A Flavorful Italian Delight

If you’re in the mood for a dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in perfect harmony, look no further than Pork Agrodolce. This traditional Italian recipe features succulent pork shoulder cooked to perfection and glazed with a delightful sweet and sour sauce. With just the right balance of acidity and sweetness, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Join us as we explore the art of making Pork Agrodolce from scratch, step by step.

Ingredients:

Meat:

  • 3 1/2 lbs Pork shoulder, boneless, cut into 2-inch cubes

Seafood:

  • 1 Anchovy fillet, finely chopped (optional)

Produce:

  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup Green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp Fresh rosemary leaves, chopped

Canned Goods:

  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste

Condiments:

  • 1/3 cup Aged balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tbsp Honey

Baking & Spices:

  • 1 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Kosher salt
  • 1 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 1/4 cup Distilled white vinegar
  • 1 tsp Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Season the Pork:
    • In a large bowl, season the pork shoulder cubes with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
  3. Sear the Pork:
    • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the pork cubes on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the seared pork to a plate and set aside.
  4. Make the Agrodolce Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped green onions. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
    • Add the balsamic vinegar, honey, chopped rosemary, and optional red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Simmer and Bake:
    • Return the seared pork cubes to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Add the anchovy fillet, if using. Pour in the distilled white vinegar.
    • Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once the pork is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or fresh rosemary, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Anchovy Addition: Adding a finely chopped anchovy fillet to the sauce enhances the umami flavor and complexity of the dish. However, feel free to omit it if you prefer a vegetarian option.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your desired level of heat. For a milder dish, reduce the quantity or omit them altogether.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork shoulder with cubed firm tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version of this dish.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

A: While pork shoulder is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin or pork tenderloin. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut of meat.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover Pork Agrodolce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, Pork Agrodolce can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Prepare the dish as directed, then allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Replace the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content of the dish.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Omit the honey altogether or use a small amount of a low-carb sweetener. Serve the dish with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice.

Pork Agrodolce is a delightful Italian dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its tender pork, aromatic herbs, and sweet-and-sour sauce, it’s a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, give this recipe a try and savor the deliciousness of Pork Agrodolce!