Craving a warm, hearty, and incredibly flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This pulled pork soup recipe is your answer. It's the perfect blend of tender, slow-cooked pork, rich broth, and vibrant vegetables, making it a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. This recipe is a celebration of homemade cooking, offering a delicious dish that’s both healthy and comforting. Get ready to experience the ultimate in easy recipes and quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes on all sides. This step enhances the flavor significantly. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
Build the flavor base:
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Simmer to perfection:
- Return the pork to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful the soup becomes!
Shred and serve:
- Remove the pot from the heat. Using two forks, shred the pork directly in the pot. Stir in the shredded green cabbage and let it wilt slightly in the hot broth.
Garnish and enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. This adds a beautiful pop of color and fresh herb flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker soup: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the soup during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or green beans. Add them along with the carrots and celery.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Make it a meal prep superstar: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It's one of the best recipes for meal prepping.
- Slow cooker option: For an even easier approach, brown the pork as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This pulled pork soup is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals you can easily prepare at home. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!