Braised Pork Cheeks

This dish is a delicious and tender way to prepare pork cheeks. The cheeks can be a bit tough if not cooked correctly, but braising them in a savory broth makes them irresistibly tender and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork cheeks, trimmed of excess fat
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork cheeks with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork cheeks, and brown on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Remove the cheeks from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, and cook until soft and translucent. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. Return the pork cheeks to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated. The cheeks should be mostly covered by the liquid.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid and turn the heat down to low. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the cheeks are very tender and can easily be pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the pot from the heat, and carefully transfer the pork cheeks to a serving plate. Use a slotted spoon to remove any onions, garlic, or herbs from the braising liquid, then skim off any excess fat.
6. Return the pot to the heat, and bring the remaining liquid to a boil. Cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Pour the sauce over the pork cheeks, and serve immediately.

Serving suggestions:

This dish goes well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. The braising liquid also makes a delicious gravy for the pork cheeks, so be sure to spoon some over the top before serving.

Verdict:

Braising pork cheeks in a savory broth is a fantastic way to cook this usually tough cut of meat. The end result is melt-in-your-mouth tender cheeks with a rich and flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. Bon appetit!