| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 340 | 22g | 8g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 2g | 25g | 1.2g |
When I first tried Braised Pork with Black Mustard Seeds, I was immediately transported back to the kitchens of my childhood, where the mingling scents of tropical fruits and savory spices were always a precursor to something mouthwateringly delicious. The marriage of succulent pork, aromatic black mustard seeds, and sweet notes from pineapple and apples brings a sense of culinary nostalgia, making this dish a staple in my home.
An Ode to Island Flavors
Living in Miami has given me the luxury of accessing fresh, vibrant produce year-round, allowing me to incorporate fruit into savory dishes, much like in this recipe. The blend of pork shoulder with the tangy sweetness of diced pineapple and apples is a celebration of Caribbean and Spanish flavors. Growing up with these tastes, it’s almost instinctual to find ways to balance and enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit with the umami of soy sauce and the zing from apple cider vinegar.
Incorporating black mustard seeds, a spice often found in Indian cuisine, adds a beautifully earthy and slightly bitter contrast to the sweet and savory elements of the dish. The seeds pop in your mouth, creating an exciting textural component that elevates the entire eating experience.
Health Benefits
On the health front, this recipe doesn’t just delight the taste buds; it comes packed with benefits. Pork shoulder is a great source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and zinc, which support muscle function and a healthy immune system. Black mustard seeds boast anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are good for heart health. The inclusion of fresh pineapple adds a dose of vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion. Apples are high in fiber and antioxidants, making this dish as nutritious as it is flavorful.
This Braised Pork with Black Mustard Seeds can be a delightful main course on its own or paired with simpler side dishes like steamed jasmine rice or even a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. For those who love exploring different cuisines, the dish’s flavor profile bears a resemblance to the sweet and spicy notes found in Filipino Adobo or even a Hawaiian Huli-Huli Chicken. It also complements other tropical dishes like coconut rice or an avocado and mango salad.
In summary, Braised Pork with Black Mustard Seeds is a dish that tells a story, rich in culture and flavors that have stood the test of time. I’m thrilled to share this recipe, in the hopes that it brings a touch of my heritage into your kitchen, filling your space with the same comforting, aromatic mix that I cherish so much.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon black mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Step One
Season the pork shoulder cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot, and brown them on all sides. Remove the browned pork cubes and set them aside.
Step Two
In the same pot, add the black mustard seeds and cook for about 30 seconds until they start to pop. Then add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Three
Return the browned pork cubes to the pot. Add the chicken broth, diced pineapple, diced apples, soy sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step Four
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step Five
Once the pork is cooked and tender, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Add the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Step Six
Serve the braised pork with steamed rice, naan, or your preferred accompaniment. Enjoy your homemade Braised Pork with Black Mustard Seeds!
