Greek-Style Braised Pork with Tomato and Thyme Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender pork shoulder slowly braised in a rich tomato and red wine sauce seasoned with fresh thyme, served over creamy mashed potatoes or rice. This greek-inspired pork ready in about 140 minutes blends pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes, olive oil, large, diced onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 120 min Serves 6 Greek cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 2 lbs cubed pork shoulder, seasoning with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, and brown the pieces in batches for 4-5 minutes each until deeply caramelized. Remove pork and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Reduce heat to medium and add 1 large diced onion and 1 large diced carrot. Sauté for 6-7 minutes until softened and golden.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until the paste darkens.
  4. Step 4: Pour in 1 cup dry red wine and simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Step 5: Return the browned pork to the pot. Add 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes, 1 cup chicken broth, 4 sprigs fresh thyme, 1 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 bay leaf.
  6. Step 6: Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until the pork is tender and the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
  7. Step 7: Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Step 8: Serve the braised pork hot over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Greek-Style Braised Pork with Tomato and Thyme Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 140 minutes (20 min prep + 120 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Greek-Style Braised Pork with Tomato and Thyme Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Greek-Style Braised Pork with Tomato and Thyme Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Greek-Style Braised Pork with Tomato and Thyme Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Greek-Style Braised Pork with Tomato and Thyme Sauce?

Greek pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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