Barbados Pork Roast

Barbados Pork Roast Recipe - Authentic Caribbean Cuisine

Region / culture: Barbados | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Barbados Pork Roast is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Caribbean cuisine to your dinner table. This recipe combines the rich, savory taste of pork loin with a blend of spices that pay homage to the culinary traditions of Barbados. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pork roast is sure to impress with its tantalizing flavors and succulent texture.

History

The history of Barbados Pork Roast is deeply rooted in the island's rich culinary heritage, which is a blend of African, Portuguese, Indian, Irish, and British influences. Spices such as cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Barbadian cuisine. This recipe, in particular, has evolved over time, incorporating local ingredients and cooking techniques to create a dish that is both traditional and uniquely Barbadian.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) boneless pork loin roast
0.5 tsp salt
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
1.5 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1.5 tsp ground black pepper
0.75 tsp ground cinnamon
0.75 tsp brown sugar

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Create a spice rub by combining salt and all the spices. Pat dry the surface of the pork using paper towels. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork.
Put the pork in a roasting pan and place it in the oven. Cook for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 155°F (68°C). Remove the pork from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Slice the pork and serve.

Variations

For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, for a sweeter twist, add more brown sugar or a touch of honey to the spice rub.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Barbados Pork Roast, consider the following tips:

- Allow the pork to reach room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.

- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork, ensuring it is cooked perfectly.

- Let the pork rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Barbados Pork Roast with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers, and a simple salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting is the preferred cooking technique for this recipe, as it allows the pork to cook evenly and develop a flavorful crust. For added moisture, consider basting the pork with its juices halfway through cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ground coriander, you can substitute it with ground allspice. For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or replace it with paprika.

Make Ahead Tips

The spice rub can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container. The pork can also be seasoned with the rub and refrigerated overnight to enhance the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the pork and arrange it on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh, citrusy accent.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light, fruity red wine such as Pinot Noir or a crisp, refreshing beer like a lager to complement the spices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Barbados Pork Roast contains approximately 300 calories, making it a suitable option for those managing their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This Barbados Pork Roast recipe is low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the small amount of brown sugar used in the spice rub. The total carbohydrate content is approximately 2 grams per serving.

Fats

The pork loin used in this recipe is relatively lean, but it still provides a good source of healthy fats. The total fat content is approximately 20 grams per serving, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Pork loin is an excellent source of high-quality protein. This recipe provides about 25 grams of protein per serving, making it a great option for maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins (especially B6 and B12), phosphorus, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients play vital roles in energy production, immune function, and bone health.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific spice sensitivities should adjust the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Overall, Barbados Pork Roast is a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients, with minimal carbohydrates and allergens.

Summary

Barbados Pork Roast is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of pork with the vibrant spices of Caribbean cuisine. With its nutritious profile and versatile serving options, it's a perfect choice for any occasion. Follow the tips and variations provided to make this dish your own and enjoy a taste of Barbados at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Barbados Pork Roast. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to the beautiful island of Barbados. As we sat in her kitchen, she excitedly showed me a worn and stained recipe card that she had picked up from a local market.

The recipe was simple yet intriguing, with ingredients that I had never heard of before. It called for a mixture of spices that were common in Caribbean cuisine, such as allspice, thyme, and cinnamon. The pork was to be marinated in a blend of vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar, giving it a unique and tangy flavor.

As my friend read through the recipe, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. So, I asked her if she could show me how to prepare it. With a smile, she agreed, and we spent the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, mixing, and marinating the pork.

As the pork roasted in the oven, the savory aroma filled the air, making my stomach growl with hunger. When it was finally ready, we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The meat was tender and succulent, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. I was hooked.

From that moment on, I knew that I had to add this recipe to my collection. I asked my friend for a copy of the recipe card, and she happily obliged. I took it home and placed it in a special binder where I kept all of my favorite recipes.

Over the years, I have made Barbados Pork Roast countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a bit more brown sugar for a sweeter glaze, or I throw in some extra thyme for a more robust flavor. No matter how I prepare it, the dish always turns out delicious.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family members, who have all raved about its mouthwatering taste. They often ask me where I learned to make such a unique and flavorful dish, and I smile as I recount the story of how I first discovered the recipe on that hot summer day in my friend's kitchen.

As I sit here now, looking back on that fateful day, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have led me to become the skilled cook that I am today. Each recipe that I have learned, whether from a friend, a family member, or a faraway land, has shaped me into the passionate cook that I am today.

And so, as I continue to explore new flavors and techniques in the kitchen, I am grateful for the sense of wonder that I felt when I first saw the recipe for Barbados Pork Roast. It is a reminder of the joy and excitement that cooking can bring, and a testament to the power of sharing food and recipes with those we love.