Keluak and Pork Belly Roast

There’s something both hearty and exotic about the Keluak and Pork Belly Roast. It’s an intriguing fusion of Pacific Northwest ingredients that I am highly familiar with, my Japanese roots, and the rich Indonesian culinary traditions. What I’ve always loved about this recipe is the intermingling of savory, sweet, and slightly bitter flavors that warms your palate from the first bite.

An Ode to My Culinary Heritage

It goes without saying that this heavenly Keluak and Pork Belly Roast is not a typical dish from my home city of Seattle. Yet, it beautifully ties in the Japanese influence that I inherited from my family, specifically the use of pork belly, a staple in many traditional Japanese dishes. Complementing this is the Indonesian Keluak, a prized ingredient in Indonesian cuisine. To me, this dish represents a celebration of my dual heritage in one pot, a dish I’d eagerly devour both in the rainy Seattle autumns and while visiting the bustling streets of Japan.

Nutrient-rich and Uniquely Delicious

Not only is this dish satisfying to the taste buds, but it also offers a wealth of health benefits. The Kaffir lime leaves contain beneficial plant compounds and have been linked to various health benefits such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The turmeric, freshly sourced, when combined with spicy ginger and galangal (a close relative of ginger) can do wonders for the immune system. And beyond its richness, pork belly is a brilliant source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, phosphorus, and niacin.

This recipe reminds me of the rich gastronomic culture of Indonesia, particularly dishes like babi guling (Balinese roast pig) or rendang (spicy meat dish), mainly due to the intriguing mix of spices and ingredients. The subtle sweetness of the coconut milk and the edgy tanginess of the tamarind paste alone can make a food composition that is incredibly similar yet uniquely different in many ways. Try serving this along with a fresh salad or a serving of nasi goreng (Indonesian fried rice) for a satisfying, exotic feast right at home.

Indeed, the Keluak and Pork Belly Roast is a favorite of mine that deeply resonates with my cooking philosophies. It’s a testament to multicultural culinary adventures, a harmonious mix of distinct flavors from different parts of the world. It’s a taste adventure I always look forward to—with exquisite flavor, a healthful feast, and a nod to my dual heritage.

What You’ll Need