Marinated Pork with Coriander

Marinated Pork with Coriander Recipe from Cyprus | Ingredients: Pork Fillet, Coriander Seeds, Red Wine, Oil, Water, Salt

Region / culture: Cyprus | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Marinated Pork with Coriander is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for a special dinner or gathering. The combination of tender pork fillet, fragrant coriander seeds, and rich red wine creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe has its origins in Cyprus, where it is known as "afelia." Traditionally, afelia is made with pork marinated in red wine and coriander seeds, then slow-cooked until tender. The dish is typically served with rice or potatoes and is a popular choice for festive occasions and family gatherings.

Ingredients

700 g pork fillet
2 tbsp coriander seeds
150 ml dry red wine
2 tbsp oil
55 ml water
1 salt and freshly milled black pepper

How to prepare

Trim any fat from the pork fillet and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Place the cubes into a bowl.
Using a pestle and mortar (or a bowl and the end of a rolling pin), lightly crush the coriander seeds. Sprinkle the crushed seeds all over the pork cubes and mix well.
Pour the wine over the pork cubes and stir everything again.
Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it marinate in the bottom of the fridge overnight.
The next day, strain the pork in a large sieve over a bowl and reserve the marinade.
Heat the oil in a medium-sized frying pan. When it is hot, fry the pork pieces in 2 batches to brown them. Remove the first batch to a plate, then return them to the pan with the second batch.
Add the reserved marinade, bring to a boil, season, and cover the pan with a lid. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
After 10 minutes, add the water. Recover the pan and cook gently for a further 30 minutes.
Serve the afelia on a bed of rice.

Variations

Try using chicken or beef instead of pork for a different flavor.
Add some chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Browning the pork before simmering helps to seal in the juices and create a rich, caramelized flavor.

- Be sure to simmer the pork gently to ensure that it stays tender and moist.

- Serve the afelia on a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Marinated Pork with Coriander on a bed of fluffy rice or with roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinating the pork overnight helps to infuse it with flavor.

- Browning the pork before simmering creates a rich, caramelized flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have coriander seeds, you can use ground coriander instead.

- You can substitute the red wine with beef or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork the night before and refrigerate it until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Marinated Pork with Coriander in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Marinated Pork with Coriander contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Marinated Pork with Coriander contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Marinated Pork with Coriander contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Marinated Pork with Coriander contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies or dietary restrictions.

Summary

Marinated Pork with Coriander is a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is perfect for a hearty meal.

Summary

Marinated Pork with Coriander is a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or family dinner. With its tender pork, fragrant coriander seeds, and rich red wine sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Marinated Pork with Coriander. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Maria's house for the weekend. Aunt Maria was known in the family for her delicious cooking, and I always looked forward to trying out her new recipes.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the fragrant aroma of coriander and garlic wafting through the air. Aunt Maria was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of marinated pork that sizzled and crackled as it cooked. I watched in awe as she expertly seasoned the meat with a blend of spices and herbs, including the fresh coriander that she had picked from her garden earlier that morning.

"Would you like to learn how to make this dish, dear?" Aunt Maria asked, noticing my curiosity.

I eagerly nodded, and she handed me a notebook and pen. "Write down the recipe as I show you," she said, guiding me through each step of the cooking process.

I watched and listened intently as Aunt Maria explained the importance of marinating the pork in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and coriander for at least an hour to infuse the meat with flavor. She then showed me how to sear the marinated pork in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and crispy on the outside.

As the pork cooked, Aunt Maria shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from a friend who had traveled to Thailand and brought back the traditional dish. She had adapted the recipe over the years, adding her own twist with the fresh coriander from her garden.

After the pork was cooked to perfection, Aunt Maria plated it with a garnish of chopped coriander and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The dish looked and smelled absolutely mouthwatering, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

I took a bite of the tender and flavorful pork, and it was like a burst of deliciousness in my mouth. The combination of the savory soy sauce, zesty ginger, aromatic garlic, and vibrant coriander created a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged Aunt Maria to teach me more of her recipes, and she was more than happy to share her culinary wisdom with me. Over the years, I learned how to make her famous dishes, each one filled with love and tradition passed down through generations.

Now, whenever I make Marinated Pork with Coriander, I think of Aunt Maria and the special bond we shared in the kitchen. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, to create memories and traditions that will last a lifetime.

As I write down the recipe for Marinated Pork with Coriander in my own notebook, I can't help but smile at the thought of passing it on to future generations. I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will learn to make this dish and remember the love and joy that went into creating it.

For me, cooking is more than just a way to nourish the body—it's a way to nourish the soul. And I am grateful for every recipe, every story, and every memory that has been shared with me along the way. Cooking is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am honored to be able to share it with those I love.