20 Hearty Pork Stew Recipes Flavorful

Get ready to cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of hearty pork stew! There’s nothing like a rich and flavorful stew to satisfy your cravings on a chilly day. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 20 mouth-watering pork stew recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic slow-cooked pork stews to bold and spicy variations, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the versatility of pork as a main ingredient.

Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and exotic, we’ve got you covered. So grab a spoon and let’s dive into the wonderful world of pork stew!

Classic Slow-Cooked Pork Stew

Classic Slow-Cooked Pork Stew
This hearty stew is a comforting classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. With tender pork, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown pork cubes, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add browned pork, broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the slow cooker.
6. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Spicy Mexican Pork Stew with Hominy

Spicy Mexican Pork Stew with Hominy
This hearty stew combines tender pork, creamy hominy, and a kick of spice for a flavorful and filling meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup cooked hominy
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork pieces, then set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, browned pork, and hominy. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Hungarian Paprika Pork Stew

Hungarian Paprika Pork Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender pork with the rich flavors of paprika and vegetables. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this dish is sure to warm your belly and your heart.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion to pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add tomatoes, broth, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return pork to the pot and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Creamy Mushroom and Pork Stew

Creamy Mushroom and Pork Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce. A comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to warm up any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return pork to pot and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.
6. Stir in heavy cream and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Caribbean Coconut Pork Stew

Caribbean Coconut Pork Stew
Experience the warm and aromatic flavors of the Caribbean with this hearty pork stew infused with coconut milk and a blend of spices. Perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork pieces, then set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet (if using) to the pot; cook until softened.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Return pork to the pot; season with salt and black pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Apple Cider Braised Pork Stew

Apple Cider Braised Pork Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork with the warmth of apple cider and autumn spices. Perfect for a chilly fall evening, this recipe is easy to make and sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the pork pieces in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Pour in apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Smoky Chipotle Pork Stew

Smoky Chipotle Pork Stew
A rich and flavorful stew that combines tender pork with the deep smokiness of chipotles, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is quick to prepare and cooks in under an hour.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (4 oz)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add browned pork back to the pot, along with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Tuscan White Bean and Pork Stew

Tuscan White Bean and Pork Stew
This hearty stew combines tender pork, creamy cannellini beans, and aromatic vegetables in a rich tomato broth, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With its bold flavors and comforting texture, this Tuscan classic is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the pork over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Korean Kimchi Pork Stew

Korean Kimchi Pork Stew
This hearty stew combines the bold flavors of kimchi with tender pork, potatoes, and spices. It’s a comforting and warming dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Water or pork broth, as needed

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi, potatoes, soy sauce, Gochujang, sugar, garlic, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the ingredients.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours

French Red Wine Pork Stew

French Red Wine Pork Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night, this French Red Wine Pork Stew is made with tender pork, rich red wine, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown pork on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Thai Green Curry Pork Stew

Thai Green Curry Pork Stew
A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines tender pork with a vibrant green curry sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup Thai green curry paste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
2. Add pork; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, broth, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let stew for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
6. Stir in basil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

German Beer-Braised Pork Stew

German Beer-Braised Pork Stew
Experience the rich flavors of Germany with this hearty pork stew, slow-cooked in a flavorful beer broth and served with crusty bread.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dark lager beer (such as Munich-style Märzen)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes in batches, then set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion until softened, 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add beer, broth, tomato paste, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir to combine, then return the browned pork to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Moroccan Spiced Pork Stew with Apricots

Moroccan Spiced Pork Stew with Apricots
Discover the exotic flavors of Morocco with this hearty stew, where tender pork and sweet apricots come together in perfect harmony. This aromatic dish is a delightful twist on traditional stews.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup dried apricots
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown pork cubes, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in spices; cook 1 minute.
5. Add broth, water, tomatoes, and apricots; bring to a boil.
6. Simmer stew for 1 hour, or until pork is tender.
7. Season with salt and black pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Southern-Style Pork and Sweet Potato Stew

Southern-Style Pork and Sweet Potato Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines tender pork and sweet potatoes in a rich and flavorful broth, perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pork, sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth, water, brown sugar, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Continue to simmer until the pork is tender and the sweet potatoes are cooked through, about an additional 20-25 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Chinese Five-Spice Pork Stew

Chinese Five-Spice Pork Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork, soy sauce, and five-spice powder with a medley of vegetables for a comforting and aromatic meal. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 potato, peeled and cubed
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, five-spice powder, sugar, and water.
5. Return pork to pot; add carrot and potato. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until pork is tender.

Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours

Cuban Mojo Pork Stew

Cuban Mojo Pork Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Cuban cuisine, where tender pork simmers in a flavorful broth infused with the bright, citrusy taste of mojo. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening meal or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup mojo marinade (see below)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Mojo Marinade:

– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the pork shoulder in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add mojo marinade, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer for 1-2 hours or until pork is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 1-2 hours

Portuguese Pork and Clam Stew

Portuguese Pork and Clam Stew
Portuguese Pork and Clam Stew: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight!

This traditional Portuguese stew is a staple of many family gatherings and celebrations. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s no wonder why this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clams (fresh or canned), rinsed and drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add clams, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return pork to the pot, adding white wine if using (optional).
7. Bring stew to a simmer and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.

Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Filipino Pork Stew with Pineapple

Filipino Pork Stew with Pineapple
This hearty stew is a staple of Filipino cuisine, where tender pork and sweet pineapple come together to create a rich and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add pineapple, beef broth, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Rustic Rosemary and Garlic Pork Stew

Rustic Rosemary and Garlic Pork Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening in, this recipe combines tender pork, fragrant rosemary, and pungent garlic in a rich broth. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, rosemary, onion, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Indian Masala Pork Stew with Chickpeas

Indian Masala Pork Stew with Chickpeas
This flavorful stew combines the richness of pork with the warmth of Indian spices, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl with chickpeas. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Summary

Get ready to warm up with these 20 hearty pork stew recipes from around the world! From classic slow-cooked stews to spicy and smoky variations, there’s something for every taste. Explore international flavors like Mexican hominy, Hungarian paprika, and Korean kimchi, or try comforting classics like apple cider braised and Southern-style sweet potato. With a range of ingredients and spices, these recipes will keep you cozy all year round. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, there’s a pork stew recipe here to satisfy your cravings.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *