There’s nothing quite like the irresistible scent of braised pork simmering on a chilly day, and this Ukrainian Pork Stew brings cozy comfort to your kitchen. As the pork shoulder gently cooks in a savory broth, the fusion of spices and earthy mushrooms fills the air, creating an atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around the table. Imagine the warmth of creamy mashed potatoes—perfectly buttery and inviting—waiting to cradle your tender pork.
I discovered this recipe one evening when I craved something hearty and soul-soothing. With just a handful of ingredients, I realized that a comforting homestyle meal could be both delicious and satisfying, cutting out the fast food run for something much better. Whether it’s serving dinner for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this dish is versatile enough to impress your guests while being easy enough for weeknight cooking. Let’s dive into making this delightful stew that’s destined to become a family favorite!
Why is Ukrainian Pork Stew a Must-Try?
Unmatched Comfort: This Ukrainian Pork Stew is the epitome of hearty home cooking, perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavor Explosion: Earthy mushrooms, robust spices, and tender pork combine for a mouthwatering experience.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll create a comforting meal without fuss.
Family Pleaser: Everyone will gather for this delicious dish—it’s a guaranteed hit!
Creamy Pairing: Complement your pork with rich, buttery mashed potatoes for the perfect balance.
Elevate your cooking game by trying this delightful recipe—it’s sure to knock out boring fast food for good!
Ukrainian Pork Stew Ingredients
• Ready to savor the rich taste of Ukrainian Pork Stew? Let’s gather our essential ingredients!
For the Pork Stew
- Pork shoulder – a well-marbled cut that becomes tender and juicy when braised.
- White mushrooms – add depth and an earthy flavor to the stew.
- Large carrots – sweeten the dish naturally and enhance its texture.
- Sweet onion – brings a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
- Garlic cloves – pack a punch of flavor, infusing the stew with warmth.
- Ground coriander – imparts a unique, citrusy spice to the stew.
- Ground cumin – adds earthy richness to the flavor profile.
- Smoked paprika – gives a smoky depth that enhances the overall dish.
- Ground black pepper – adds a necessary kick to your stew.
- All-purpose flour – helps thicken the stew, creating a luscious sauce.
- Water or vegetable broth – serves as the base for your delicious braising liquid.
- Sour cream – adds creaminess and tanginess that elevates the dish.
- Ketchup – balances flavors with a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Salt – enhances and brings all the flavors together.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- Large potatoes – choose starchy varieties for the fluffiest mashed potatoes.
- Unsalted butter – infuses richness and creaminess into your potatoes.
- Heavy cream – adjust to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
For Garnish
- Fresh dill – brightens the stew and adds a fresh herby touch.
- Fresh parsley – adds vibrant color and freshness to your serving plate.
Gather these ingredients to transform your kitchen into a warm haven of flavors with this hearty Ukrainian Pork Stew!
How to Make Ukrainian Pork Stew
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Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork shoulder into 1-inch cubes. Preheat a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add cooking oil, and brown the pork in batches for about 7-8 minutes, seasoning with salt. Transfer the browned pork into a braising pot.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add more oil and brown the diced mushrooms for 5-6 minutes. Add the grated carrots and diced sweet onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
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Add Spices: Incorporate ground coriander, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper and stir to toast the spices. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour to thicken the stew, then mix well.
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Create the Stew Base: Pour in the water (or vegetable broth), sour cream, ketchup, and salt. Whisk to combine thoroughly and pour the liquid mixture over the browned pork in the braising pot, stirring well.
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Simmer Until Tender: Bring the braising pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover with a lid slightly ajar to allow for evaporation. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1.5 hours until the pork is fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the pork cooks, peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water, bring to a boil over high heat, and cover, cooking for 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes, add unsalted butter, and let it melt. Mash the potatoes, adding heavy cream as needed to reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and Garnish: Once the pork is done, stir in fresh dill and parsley. Serve the braised pork over the creamy mashed potatoes, pouring some sauce on top, and garnish with additional fresh herbs.
Optional: Drizzle with extra sour cream for an added creamy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ukrainian Pork Stew ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut the pork shoulder into cubes and brown them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep fresh. Additionally, you can sauté the mushrooms, carrots, onions, and garlic, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to complete your dish, combine the prepped components and follow the cooking instructions for the stew, adding the spices and broth as made fresh. This way, you’ll enjoy the same hearty, comforting flavors with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze on busy evenings!
Expert Tips for Ukrainian Pork Stew
Choose the Right Cut: Use well-marbled pork shoulder, as it becomes fork-tender during braising, creating a flavorful Ukrainian Pork Stew.
Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the pork and vegetables helps develop deep flavors. Be patient; a good sear makes a world of difference.
Simmer Low and Slow: Keep the heat low while simmering to ensure the pork becomes beautifully tender and absorbs all the spices.
Adjust Consistency: Feel free to add more sour cream or heavy cream to reach your desired richness in both the stew and the mashed potatoes.
Garnish Generously: Use fresh dill and parsley not just for flavor but also to brighten your dish and enhance its presentation.
Ukrainian Pork Stew Variations
Customize your dish with delicious twists that will elevate each bite!
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Mushroom Medley: Incorporate a mix of wild mushrooms for deeper flavor and texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the stew for a touch of heat that warms the soul.
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Herb-Infused: Swap dill and parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the herbaceous notes in the dish.
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Creamy Upgrade: Replace sour cream with cream cheese for an extra luxurious richness and a hint of tanginess.
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Potato Alternatives: Try using cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lighter, low-carb version that still feels comforting.
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Protein Switch: Substitute pork with chicken thighs or beef chuck for a different flavor profile while maintaining tenderness.
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Sweet Element: Add diced apples or a tablespoon of honey to the stew for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory spices.
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Vegan Option: Use jackfruit or seitan in place of pork and vegetable broth instead of water for a plant-based adaptation.
What to Serve with Ukrainian Pork Stew?
Imagine a cozy meal where every bite feels like a warm embrace, perfectly complemented by comforting sides.
- Crusty Bread: A fresh loaf offers a delightful crunch, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce of the stew.
- Garlic Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed with garlic add a freshness that balances the hearty, savory flavors of the pork.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the meal with bright, crisp flavors.
- Pickled Vegetables: The acidity of pickled cucumbers or carrots adds an exciting zing, cutting through the richness of the pork stew.
- Butter-Glazed Corn: Sweet, tender corn adds a touch of sweetness that complements the spices beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and aromatic, a fluffy rice pilaf laced with herbs offers a delicate base for the rich stew.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine accentuates the bold flavors, making it a delightful pairing for this comfort food.
- Warm Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream brings a cozy, sweet finish to your meal.
These pairings create a symphony of flavors, ensuring that every element of your dining experience is comforting, hearty, and utterly satisfying. Enjoy your meal!
How to Store and Freeze Ukrainian Pork Stew
Fridge: Store leftover Ukrainian Pork Stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezer: Freeze the stew in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little broth or water to bring back its creamy texture.
Mashed Potatoes: Store mashed potatoes separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. For freezing, place in portions and use within 1 month for the best quality.
Ukrainian Pork Stew Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork for Ukrainian Pork Stew?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for a well-marbled pork shoulder. This cut breaks down beautifully during the long cooking process, ensuring tenderness and richness in your stew.
What’s the best way to store leftover Ukrainian Pork Stew?
You should store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve the stew’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze Ukrainian Pork Stew? If so, how?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic option for this stew. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
How can I fix my stew if it’s too thick?
If you find your stew has become thicker than expected, don’t worry! Just add a little warm water, broth, or even a splash of heavy cream to bring it back to your desired consistency. Stir well, and allow it to simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For those with food allergies, ensure you check labels, especially for the broth and ketchup, which may contain gluten or preservatives. You can substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option, making sure the spices are preserved to keep that delicious Ukrainian flavor intact.
What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can customize your Ukrainian Pork Stew by adding other vegetables like potatoes or peas for added nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Feel free to experiment with spices, too, like adding a dash of bay leaves for a different flavor profile!

Savor Ukrainian Pork Stew with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork shoulder into 1-inch cubes. Preheat a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add cooking oil, and brown the pork in batches for about 7-8 minutes, seasoning with salt. Transfer the browned pork into a braising pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add more oil and brown the diced mushrooms for 5-6 minutes. Add the grated carrots and diced sweet onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Spices: Incorporate ground coriander, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper and stir to toast the spices. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour to thicken the stew, then mix well.
- Create the Stew Base: Pour in the water (or vegetable broth), sour cream, ketchup, and salt. Whisk to combine thoroughly and pour the liquid mixture over the browned pork in the braising pot, stirring well.
- Simmer Until Tender: Bring the braising pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover with a lid slightly ajar to allow for evaporation. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1.5 hours until the pork is fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the pork cooks, peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water, bring to a boil over high heat, and cover, cooking for 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes, add unsalted butter, and let it melt. Mash the potatoes, adding heavy cream as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the pork is done, stir in fresh dill and parsley. Serve the braised pork over the creamy mashed potatoes, pouring some sauce on top, and garnish with additional fresh herbs.