Hawaiian Simmered Pork

Hawaiian Simmered Pork Recipe - Authentic Taste of Hawaii

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Hawaiian Simmered Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. The combination of tangy vinegar, savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and aromatic ginger creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the tender pork loin. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!

History

Hawaiian Simmered Pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The recipe has its roots in the diverse culinary influences of Hawaii, including Asian and Polynesian flavors. The slow simmering method allows the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

4 lb (1.81 kg) boneless pork loin
0.75 cup white vinegar
0.5 cup soy sauce
0.5 cup firmly packed brown sugar
0.5 tsp ground ginger

How to prepare

Place the pork loin in a 5 qt (4.73 liter) kettle.
In a bowl, mix together vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, then pour the mixture over the pork.
Cover and simmer for 3 hours.

Variations

Add pineapple chunks or bell peppers for a tropical twist.
Use pork shoulder or pork belly for a richer flavor.
Substitute chicken or tofu for a lighter alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a high-quality boneless pork loin for the best results.

- Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure that the pork is tender and fully cooked.

- For added flavor, you can marinate the pork in the sauce mixture for a few hours before cooking.

- Serve the dish with steamed rice or Hawaiian sweet bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hawaiian Simmered Pork with steamed rice, Hawaiian sweet bread, or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Hawaiian Simmered Pork is to simmer the pork loin slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. Be sure to check the pork periodically to ensure that it does not overcook.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have white vinegar on hand, you can use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

Hawaiian Simmered Pork can be made 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

Garnish the Hawaiian Simmered Pork with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the dish in a decorative serving dish or on a bed of steamed rice for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Hawaiian Simmered Pork with a crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, serve the pork with a glass of iced green tea or pineapple juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Hawaiian Simmered Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hawaiian Simmered Pork contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hawaiian Simmered Pork contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hawaiian Simmered Pork contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Hawaiian Simmered Pork contains approximately 35 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Hawaiian Simmered Pork is a good source of iron, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. Please check the label if you have a gluten allergy.

Summary

Hawaiian Simmered Pork is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Hawaiian Simmered Pork is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The tender pork loin is simmered in a flavorful sauce made with vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, creating a dish that is both sweet and savory. Serve the pork with steamed rice or Hawaiian sweet bread for a complete meal that is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was during a family vacation to Hawaii, where we were staying with some friends who lived on the island. One evening, they invited us over for dinner and served us the most delicious Hawaiian Simmered Pork I had ever tasted.

As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish. The flavors were so complex and rich, yet the dish itself was so simple and comforting. I begged our hosts for the recipe, and they were kind enough to share it with me.

The secret, they told me, was in the marinade. It was a combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and pineapple juice. The pork was marinated in this mixture overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a tender, succulent dish.

I was determined to recreate this dish at home for my family. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work marinating the pork. The smell of the marinade filled the kitchen, and I knew I was on the right track.

The next day, I simmered the pork in the marinade, allowing it to cook slowly and develop even more flavor. The meat was so tender it practically fell apart with a fork. I served it over a bed of steamed rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

My family was blown away by the dish. They couldn't believe I had made something so delicious and complex. From that day on, Hawaiian Simmered Pork became a staple in our household, a dish we would enjoy on special occasions and weeknight dinners alike.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's tastes. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about it and begged for the recipe.

I have also learned to make variations of the dish, adding different ingredients like pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and even a touch of chili for a spicy kick. Each version is just as delicious as the original, and I love experimenting with new flavors and techniques.

But no matter how many times I make Hawaiian Simmered Pork, it will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of that magical vacation in Hawaii, of the friends who shared their recipe with me, and of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something truly special in the kitchen.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and to pass it down to future generations. I hope that my grandchildren will continue to make Hawaiian Simmered Pork, sharing it with their friends and loved ones, and creating new memories and traditions along the way.