Banana Pork

Banana Pork Recipe from New Zealand with Char Siu Sauce and Sesame Oil

Region / culture: New Zealand | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Banana Pork is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of pork with the sweet, tropical flavor of bananas. This recipe uses New Zealand steaks, known for their high quality and tenderness, marinated in char siu sauce for a touch of Asian flair, and finished with a hint of sesame oil for depth. The addition of bananas adds an unexpected but delightful sweetness, making this dish a memorable culinary experience.

History

The Banana Pork recipe is a fusion dish that has evolved over time, incorporating elements from various cuisines. The use of char siu sauce points to Chinese influences, while the incorporation of bananas suggests tropical or Southeast Asian inspirations. This recipe is a modern creation, designed for adventurous cooks looking to explore new flavor combinations and bring a touch of exoticism to their table.

Ingredients

500 g of New Zealand pork steaks (schnitzel, Scotch fillet, or leg steaks recommended)
0.5 cup of Lee Kum Kee char siu sauce
1 tbsp of Lee Kum Kee sesame oil
4 bananas

How to prepare

Slice the steak into strips.
Place the steak strips in a heavy plastic bag with 0.5 cup of char siu sauce and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Heat the BBQ, fry pan, or wok with sesame oil.
Drain the pork and stir fry until cooked.
Slice the bananas and heat them through.

Variations

For a spicier version, add a tablespoon of chili sauce to the marinade. If bananas are not your preference, try substituting with pineapple for a different but equally tropical sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, marinate the pork for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating overnight. When stir-frying the pork, make sure the pan is hot enough to sear the meat quickly without overcooking it. Adding the bananas at the last minute ensures they warm through without becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Banana Pork over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Cooking Techniques

Marinating and stir-frying are key techniques in this recipe. Marinating the pork ensures it's flavorful and tender, while stir-frying keeps it juicy and cooks the bananas to perfection.

Ingredient Substitutions

If New Zealand steaks are not available, any high-quality pork steak can be used. Hoisin sauce can be substituted for char siu sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The pork can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance, making this dish perfect for preparing ahead of time. Simply cook when ready to serve for a quick and delicious meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve on a platter with the bananas artistically placed around the pork. Use colorful vegetables as garnish to enhance the visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors of Banana Pork. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the pork moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Banana Pork contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option that fits well into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the bananas and the char siu sauce. One serving contains approximately 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those on a moderate carbohydrate diet.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the pork and the sesame oil. New Zealand steaks are lean, but the marbling provides enough fat to keep the dish moist and flavorful. The total fat content per serving is around 15-20 grams, with a balance of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Pork is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of Banana Pork provides approximately 25-30 grams of protein, contributing to muscle maintenance and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas add a nutritional boost to this dish, providing potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Pork is also a good source of B vitamins, particularly B12, thiamin, and niacin, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (in the char siu sauce) and sesame, which are common allergens. Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should take caution.

Summary

Overall, Banana Pork is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a flavorful option that doesn't compromise on nutrition.

Summary

Banana Pork is a delightful fusion dish that combines the savory richness of pork with the sweet, tropical taste of bananas. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making it a great addition to any cook's repertoire. With its balanced nutrition profile and exotic flavors, Banana Pork is sure to become a favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Banana Pork. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished browsing through the shelves of an old bookstore in the heart of the city. As I was about to leave, a tattered cookbook caught my eye. Intrigued, I picked it up and flipped through the pages, my heart racing with excitement.

The book was filled with recipes from all over the world, each one more intriguing than the last. But it was the recipe for Banana Pork that caught my attention. The combination of sweet bananas and savory pork sounded unusual yet delicious, and I knew I had to try it.

I bought the cookbook and rushed home to my tiny kitchen, eager to recreate the dish. As I gathered the ingredients and started cooking, the aroma of sizzling pork and ripe bananas filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As I took my first bite of the finished dish, I knew I had discovered something truly special. The sweet and savory flavors melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, hoping they would love it as much as I did.

Over the years, I have made Banana Pork countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. I have served it at family gatherings, dinner parties, and even potlucks, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tried it.

I have shared the recipe with anyone who asked, spreading the joy of this delicious dish far and wide. And each time I make it, I am reminded of that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen.

I have learned many recipes over the years, from my mother, my grandmother, and even friends and neighbors. But the recipe for Banana Pork holds a special place in my heart, as it represents the joy of discovery and the thrill of creating something truly unique and delicious.

As I sit here in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells of cooking and the comforting presence of my well-worn cookbook, I am grateful for the countless recipes that have brought joy and nourishment to my life. But none quite compare to the simple yet extraordinary delight of Banana Pork.