Heat cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent.
Add the cubed pork to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
Pour in the tomato sauce and water (or pork broth) to the pot. Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let the pork stew simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Add the cubed potatoes, carrots, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Add the frozen green peas, sliced hotdogs, and raisins to the pot. Stir well and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Taste the pork menudo and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Once the pork is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, remove the bay leaf and discard. Serve the pork menudo hot with steamed rice.
Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving, if desired.
Pork menudo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Pork menudo is a versatile dish, so feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preference. Some variations include adding liver, chorizo, or green olives.
Pork shoulder or belly works well for pork menudo, but feel free to use your preferred cut of pork.