Stewing -- Slow and Steady Yields a Tender Dish

1. Heat a small amount of vegetable or canola oil in a heavy pan over medium-high heat. Select a pan large enough so that you can brown all the pork at one time and deep enough so that the pieces are completely immersed in whatever liquid you use.

2. Dredge the pork pieces in flour. This will help create a crust during the browning process, which will ensure the pieces remain moist and tender. The flour will also help thicken the liquid, creating a more enjoyable stew.

3. Cook the pork pieces, turning over as needed, until you see that all the pieces have browned evenly. Remove any excess oil, and add the water or other liquid. Many recipes call for chicken or veal stock, which are both good choices for producing depth of flavor.

4. Cover the pan with the lid, and simmer on low heat until the pork is tender -- approximately 1 to 3 hours. Add any desired vegetables near the end of the cooking time, based on the type of vegetable. Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and onions, require 45-minutes to 1-hour cooking time. Sliced or chopped zucchini or yellow squash or tomatoes take much less time, approximately 20 minutes. You can add frozen corn and peas during the last few minutes. Serve the stew in deep bowls with a side of crackers or bread. Alternatively, ladle the stew over a bed of rice or polenta for a one-bowl meal.

Braising Brings Out Flavor

1. Heat the oil in the pan over high heat. Generously season pork pieces with herbs and spices, and salt and pepper. Sage, garlic, thyme and lemon pepper pair well with pork.

2. Sear the pork pieces, turning pieces over until you see that they have browned evenly. Add a small amount of water or other liquid and cover with lid. Chicken or veal stock are popular choices for liquids. The goal with braising is to sear the meat at a high temperature, and then to allow it to cook until tender at a low temperature.

3. Simmer on low heat until the pork is tender -- approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Serve with your family’s favorite side dish for a quick meal.