Pork With Chestnuts

This comforting dish features lean pork cubes slow-simmered until fork-tender, paired with the earthy sweetness of skinned chestnuts. The sauce is enriched with soy sauce, dark brown sugar, and a splash of sherry for depth. Fresh spinach is quickly wilted in sesame oil and served as a vibrant bed for the savory pork mixture. The combination of textures&# 226;ÂÂtender meat, nutty chestnuts, and soft greensÃ¢ÂÂcreates a balanced, hearty meal. It is an excellent choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a simple yet elegant main course for guests. The flavors are warm and inviting, making it a perfect comfort food option that feels special without being overly complicated.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Frying, Stewing, Stir Frying

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Advanced

Servings: 6

Calories: 318.6

Description

This comforting dish features lean pork cubes slow-simmered until fork-tender, paired with the earthy sweetness of skinned chestnuts. The sauce is enriched with soy sauce, dark brown sugar, and a splash of sherry for depth. Fresh spinach is quickly wilted in sesame oil and served as a vibrant bed for the savory pork mixture. The combination of textures&# 226;ÂÂtender meat, nutty chestnuts, and soft greensÃ¢ÂÂcreates a balanced, hearty meal. It is an excellent choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a simple yet elegant main course for guests. The flavors are warm and inviting, making it a perfect comfort food option that feels special without being overly complicated.

Ingredients

1 pound Very lean pork
3/4 pound Skinned chestnuts
5 tablespoon Soy sauce
1 teaspoon Sesame oil
1 tablespoon Dark brown sugar
1 pound Fresh leaf spinach
2 tablespoon Dry sherry (optional)

Directions

1
Cut the pork into small, bite-sized cubes.
2
Place the pork in a frying pan or pot with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
3
Skim off any residue or foam that rises to the surface.
4
Cover the pan tightly and simmer the pork for 1 hour.
5
Meanwhile, place the chestnuts in a separate large pan with enough water to cover them and bring to a boil.
6
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer the chestnuts for 1 hour until tender.
7
Drain the chestnuts and add them to the pot with the pork.
8
Add the soy sauce, sherry (if using), and dark brown sugar to the pork and chestnut mixture.
9
Simmer the mixture slowly for an additional 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
10
Wash the spinach thoroughly and drain well.
11
Heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in a frying pan or wok over high heat.
12
Add the spinach and 1 tablespoon of the liquid from the pork mixture.
13
Cook the spinach for approximately 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until just wilted.
14
Place the wilted spinach into a deep serving dish.
15
Spoon the pork and chestnut mixture on top of the spinach.
16
Pour the remaining juices from the pork mixture over the top.
17
Serve very hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 318.6kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 17.4g27%
Saturated Fat 5.9g30%
Cholesterol 90.8mg31%
Sodium 117.9mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 6.9g3%
Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugars 1.3g
Protein 31.5g63%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Ensure the pork is lean to keep the dish light. Trim any visible fat before cutting.

If using frozen chestnuts, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

The sherry is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor; you can substitute with a splash of rice vinegar if preferred.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

For a richer sauce, you can reduce the cooking liquid further after adding the chestnuts.

Keywords: pork, chestnuts, spinach, braised, soy sauce, sesame oil, sherry, brown sugar, comfort food, main course, lean pork, simmered, wilted greens, savory, earthy, dinner, easy, home cooking, vegetables, protein

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/pork-with-chestnuts/