This type of stew is normally cooked slowly for a few hours using tougher and fattier meat from the shoulder or rib area, but this quick version uses lean boneless pork chops. The lean meat becomes dry and hard when overcooked, so do pay attention to the cooking times. Serve over couscous, bulgur or rice, and garnish with a blend of 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons chopped scallions and 1 tablespoon chopped mint.

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2 lemons
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2 1/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
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2 teaspoons paprika, preferably Hungarian
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1 teaspoon ground turmeric
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1 teaspoon ground coriander
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
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1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, plus 1 pinch, divided
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1 1/2 pounds boneless pork chops, (1 inch thick), trimmed of fat, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 14-ounce can reduced-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup butternut squash, diced (1/2-inch dice)
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1 cup carrots, sliced (1/2 inch thick)
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1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed
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1/2 cup onion, chopped
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1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes
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2 tablespoons preserved lemon, chopped rinsed, (see Note; optional)
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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2 teaspoons minced garlic
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1/4 teaspoon hot sauce, such as Tabasco
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1 pinch ground cinnamon
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1 pinch ground allspice
Full of spice and exotic flavors, this Cuban take on the classic Spanish paella is an easy way to feed a hungry crowd. Don't worry if you have leftovers. They can easily be rewarmed in a microwave or combined with eggs to make a Spanish tortilla (omelet); or for a great cold dish, toss the leftover rice with cooked vegetables and a vinaigrette made with lime juice instead of vinegar.
See Recipe

