Filipino Menudo (Diced Pork Stew with Potatoes)

Okay, let me start by saying "this is nothing like the Mexican version." Filipino Menudo has a lot of Spanish influence.  This is especially wonderful the next day.  It does take some time for the cooking process but so worth it.  My husband absolutely loves this and cannot wait for me to make it.  The challenge is letting it sit for a little while to let the flavors marry.  Not possible at my house.

Ingredients:

1 lb pork butt or shoulder (cut in large sections)
1 lb calf or beef liver (cut into bite size pieces)
3 large tomatoes (chopped or minced)
2 1/2 cups potatoes (cut into bite size pieces)
1/2 cup canned chick peas (drained)
1/2 cup frozen peas
1 large onion (minced)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups water (from boiled pork)
1 roasted red bell pepper (diced) or 3oz jar of pimiento
1/2 cup raisins
1 tblsp sugar
2 tblsp olive or canola oil
salt and pepper

In a deep pot, fill about half way with water, add the pork and season with salt.  Boil for 45 minutes until pork is tender.  Strain pork reserving 2 cups of the broth and set aside to cool.  When cool, chop pork into bite size pieces.   

In a large deep pan or pot, heat oil.  Add potatoes and cook until tender and lightly brown.  Add onion and garlic.  Cook until onion is translucent, then add the tomatoes and sugar.  Continue cooking stirring constantly until tomatoes soften approximately 3-4 minutes.  Add the pork and liver.  Continue stirring until liver browns and is cooked.  Add the reserved 2 cups of pork broth, peas, raisins and chick peas.  Allow to gently boil for another 12-13 minutes.  Liquid will reduce; season with salt  and pepper.  Add the roasted bell peppers or pimientos and continue to cook for another 8 minutes.  Serve hot over rice.