Feast-Day Motu Pork

Name: Feast-Day Motu Pork
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Solomon Islands
Ingredients: Pork shoulder, cut into large pieces — 2 kg (4.4 lb); Coconut milk — 2 cups; Garlic, crushed — 4 cloves; Grated ginger — 2 tbsp; Banana leaves, for wrapping (or foil as a substitute); Salt, — to taste

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Pork shoulder, cut into large pieces — 2 kg (4.4 lb)
Coconut milk — 2 cups
Garlic, crushed — 4 cloves
Grated ginger — 2 tbsp
Banana leaves, for wrapping (or foil as a substitute)
Salt, — to taste

Method

Rub the pork pieces all over with garlic, ginger, and salt.
Wrap the pork tightly in banana leaves or foil along with the coconut milk.
Place the parcel in a large covered roasting pan.
Cook at 160°C for 3 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
Unwrap and serve the pork with the rich cooking juices spooned over.

Introduction: Pork slow-cooked in an earth oven is the centrepiece of major celebrations in the Solomon Islands, from church feasts to community gatherings; this recipe recreates the dish using a covered roasting pan.

Cultural Background: Pork slow-cooked in an earth oven is the centrepiece of major celebrations in the Solomon Islands, from church feasts to community gatherings; this recipe recreates the dish using a covered roasting pan.

Tips: Check the pork after 2.5 hours; cooking time can vary depending on the size of the pieces.

Variations: Replace the pork with large chunks of breadfruit, pumpkin, and taro for a vegetarian and vegan feast dish.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered dish in the oven with a little of the reserved juices to keep it moist.

Nutrition: Approx. per serving: 340 kcal, 26 g protein, 24 g fat, 4 g carbohydrates, 0 g fibre.

FAQs:

Q: Can a smaller cut of pork be used?

A: Yes, reduce the cooking time slightly for a smaller piece, checking for tenderness before serving.

Q: Do I need a roasting pan, or can I use a slow cooker?

A: A slow cooker works well too — wrap the pork as directed and cook on low for a similar total time.