Pork and quince casserole with apple cider and chestnut dumplings is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of quince and apple cider with the savory taste of pork.

This comforting casserole is perfect for chilly evenings or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the casserole:.

2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 quinces, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 cups of apple cider
1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
2 sprigs of fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the dumplings:.

1 cup of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of chestnut flour
2 teaspoons of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 cup of unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
1/2 cup of milk
1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pork chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

4. Add the sliced quinces and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.

5. Return the pork to the pot and pour in the apple cider and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.

6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it cook for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender.

7. During the last 30 minutes of cooking the casserole, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, chestnut flour, baking powder, and salt.

8. Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

9. Stir in the milk and chopped fresh parsley until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

10. Remove the pot from the oven and drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the casserole.

11. Return the pot to the oven, uncovered, and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and lightly golden.

12. Serve the pork and quince casserole with the apple cider and chestnut dumplings hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Variations

1. For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add some chopped bacon or pancetta along with the pork.

2. If quince is not in season or unavailable, you can substitute it with firm pears or apples for a similar flavor profile.

3. To make the dish more colorful and nutritious, you can add some seasonal vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious pork and quince casserole with apple cider and chestnut dumplings pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

Pork and quince casserole with apple cider and chestnut dumplings is a delightful dish that combines a variety of flavors and textures. This comforting casserole is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.

Try this recipe on your next special occasion or when you’re craving a flavorful and satisfying meal.