Glazed and Braised Pork

Glazed and Braised Pork Recipe from Haiti - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Glazed and Braised Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of orange juice with the tanginess of lime juice to create a mouthwatering glaze for tender pork cubes. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional braised pork dishes from various cuisines around the world. Braising is a cooking technique that involves searing meat at high heat and then simmering it in liquid until it is tender and flavorful. The addition of citrus juices in this recipe adds a unique twist to the classic braised pork dish.

Ingredients

0.25 cup vegetable oil
2 lb (907 g) boneless pork loin, cut into 2-inch cubes
1 cup finely chopped onions
0.25 cup finely chopped shallots, or substitute green onions (white part only)
1 cup strained fresh orange juice
0.25 cup strained fresh lime juice
0.25 cup water
0.25 tsp crumbled dried thyme
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
0.5 small hot pepper, minced

How to prepare

In a large, heavy skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until a light haze forms above it.
Add the pork cubes.
Turn the cubes frequently with a spoon and adjust the heat as necessary to ensure they brown richly and evenly without burning.
Stir in the onions, shallots, orange juice, lime juice, water, thyme, salt, pepper, and hot pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then cover the skillet, reduce the heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.
Uncover the skillet, increase the heat to high, and stir frequently to prevent the meat from sticking.
Continue cooking briskly for 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens to a syrupy glaze.

Variations

Substitute the pork loin with chicken or beef for a different flavor.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for added texture and nutrition.
Experiment with different citrus juices such as lemon or grapefruit for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the pork cubes evenly to develop rich flavor.

- Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

- Stir frequently to prevent the meat from sticking to the skillet.

- Simmer the pork in the liquid until it is tender and the sauce thickens to a glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Glazed and Braised Pork over steamed rice or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Braising, Searing, Simmering

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef instead of pork.

- Substitute orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the cooked pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Glazed and Braised Pork in a shallow bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and citrus slices. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the pork for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. A glass of chilled white wine or a citrus-infused cocktail would complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 5g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Glazed and Braised Pork is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a healthy option for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Glazed and Braised Pork is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender pork cubes with a citrusy glaze. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this delicious pork dish!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for glazed and braised pork. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother and grandmother.

I had always been fascinated by the way they effortlessly whipped up delicious meals in the kitchen, and I longed to be able to do the same. So when I stumbled upon this recipe in an old cookbook that had been passed down through generations, I knew I had to give it a try.

The recipe called for a few simple ingredients – pork shoulder, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger – but the method of cooking was what intrigued me the most. It required patience and skill to braise the pork until it was tender and juicy, and then to glaze it with a sweet and savory sauce that would caramelize and create a mouthwatering crust.

I set to work in the kitchen, carefully following each step of the recipe as if my life depended on it. I seasoned the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then seared it in a hot skillet until it was golden brown on all sides. Next, I added the garlic and ginger, letting them sizzle and release their fragrant aromas.

As the pork braised in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, and water, I could hardly contain my excitement. The savory scent that wafted through the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that this dish would be something truly special.

After a few hours of simmering on the stovetop, the pork was tender and falling apart at the touch of a fork. I carefully transferred it to a baking dish and brushed it with the glaze, then popped it into the oven to broil until the top was caramelized and crispy.

When I finally pulled the dish out of the oven, my heart skipped a beat. The glazed and braised pork looked absolutely stunning, with a glistening crust that promised a burst of flavor in every bite.

I couldn't wait to dig in, but I knew that patience was key. I let the pork rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I plated the pork with a side of steamed rice and some sautéed vegetables, then took a tentative bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth – the sweet and sticky glaze balanced perfectly with the savory and tender pork. It was a symphony of tastes and textures that danced on my taste buds, leaving me speechless.

I knew in that moment that this recipe for glazed and braised pork would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come. It was a dish that spoke to my soul, a dish that reminded me of the love and care that went into each and every meal that my mother and grandmother had ever made for me.

And as I sat at the table, savoring each bite of that delicious pork, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the culinary heritage that had been passed down to me. Cooking was more than just a chore – it was a way to connect with my roots, to honor the traditions of my ancestors, and to create something truly magical with my own two hands.

From that day on, glazed and braised pork became a signature dish in my repertoire. I shared the recipe with friends and family, and each time I made it, I felt a deep sense of pride and joy.

And as I look back on that fateful day when I stumbled upon the recipe for glazed and braised pork, I can't help but smile. It was a moment that changed my life, a moment that ignited a passion for cooking that still burns brightly in my heart to this day. And for that, I am eternally grateful.