Curried Pork Medley

Curried Pork Medley Recipe from India with Bananas and Olives

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Curried Pork Medley is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender pork chops with a medley of spices, fruits, and vegetables. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests.

History

The origins of Curried Pork Medley can be traced back to traditional Indian and Caribbean cuisine, where the combination of curry spices with meat and rice is a popular and beloved dish. Over time, variations of this recipe have emerged, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile.

Ingredients

6 pork chops, 0.75 inch (about 1.5 lb (680 g))
2 tbsp vegetable oil
salt and ground black pepper
1 tsp curry powder
2 firm, ripe bananas, sliced diagonally
1 clove garlic, minced
0.5 cup chopped onion
1 x 15.5- to 16 oz (454 g) can tomatoes, drained, chopped, and liquid reserved
1 cup uncooked rice
3 whole cloves
0.25 tsp hot pepper sauce
0.5 cup pitted ripe olives, sliced

How to prepare

Brown the pork chops in hot oil in a large skillet.
Season with salt and pepper. Remove and keep warm.
Add curry powder and bananas to the skillet; stir to coat over low heat. Remove the bananas.
Add garlic, onion, and 1.5 tsp of salt to the skillet; cook until tender.
Stir in tomato juice and enough water to make 2.33 cups of liquid.
Add rice, cloves, and pepper sauce. Top with the chops.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the chops and discard the cloves.
Stir in tomatoes and place the bananas on top of the rice mixture. Heat through.
Serve the chops with rice and bananas.

Variations

Substitute chicken or beef for the pork chops.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the pork chops well to develop a rich flavor.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder and hot pepper sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- Be careful not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy.

- Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Curried Pork Medley with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

- Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork chops adds flavor and helps to seal in the juices.

- Simmering the rice with the pork chops allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious and cohesive dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.

- Swap out the olives for capers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the curry sauce and marinate the pork chops ahead of time for a quicker cooking process.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Curried Pork Medley in a large serving dish with the pork chops arranged on top of the rice and banana mixture. - Garnish with a sprinkle of curry powder or a drizzle of coconut milk for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Curried Pork Medley with a crisp white wine or a light lager beer.

- Serve with a side of naan bread or roti for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

420

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

This recipe contains pork and may not be suitable for individuals with pork allergies.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Curried Pork Medley is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender pork chops with a flavorful curry sauce, rice, and bananas. With a perfect balance of spices and textures, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning my way around the kitchen. My grandmother, a master chef in her own right, had invited me over to spend the day learning some of her most beloved recipes. Little did I know that I would stumble upon a culinary gem that would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire – the Curried Pork Medley.

As we stood side by side at the stove, my grandmother began to teach me the art of creating this flavorful dish. She started by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a generous amount of butter until they were soft and fragrant. The kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of these ingredients mingling together, creating a tantalizing base for the dish.

Next, she added chunks of tender pork, seasoned with a blend of warming spices – curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and a touch of cinnamon. As the meat sizzled in the pan, the spices coated each piece, infusing them with a rich and exotic flavor that danced on my taste buds.

I watched in awe as she poured in a can of coconut milk, which added a creamy richness to the dish and balanced out the bold flavors of the curry spices. The mixture simmered gently on the stove, allowing the pork to soak up all of the delicious flavors and tenderize to perfection.

As the dish cooked, my grandmother shared with me the story of how she had come to learn this recipe herself. She told me that many years ago, she had traveled to India and had the opportunity to study under a local chef who had taught her the secrets of authentic Indian cuisine. It was during this time that she had perfected the recipe for Curried Pork Medley, a dish that had since become a family favorite.

I listened intently as she recounted her time in India, describing the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling markets and vibrant spice stalls. She spoke of the warm hospitality of the people she had met, who had welcomed her into their homes and shared with her their most cherished recipes.

As the dish neared completion, my grandmother added a handful of raisins and toasted almonds, which added a touch of sweetness and crunch to the savory pork medley. The final touch was a sprinkling of fresh cilantro, which added a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

We sat down together at the table, eager to taste the fruits of our labor. I took my first bite of the Curried Pork Medley and was instantly transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic spices. The tender pork melted in my mouth, while the creamy coconut milk and fragrant curry spices danced on my taste buds.

My grandmother looked at me with a smile, her eyes filled with pride. “You’ve done well, my dear,” she said. “This recipe is a treasure, passed down through generations. I’m so glad to see you carrying on the tradition.”

And so, the Curried Pork Medley became a staple in my own cooking repertoire, a dish that I would make time and time again for family and friends. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that special day in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of creating a culinary masterpiece that would bring joy and satisfaction to all who tasted it.