Phaksha Paa is a traditional Bhutanese pork dish that beautifully captures the essence of the country's rich culinary heritage. This simple yet flavorful recipe features tender pork, spicy chilies, and crisp radishes, showcasing Bhutan's love for bold flavors. The dish is prepared by marinating the pork with local spices, sautéing it with onions and chilies, and simmering it with radishes until tender.
Phaksha Paa is not only delicious but also nutritious. The pork provides protein and essential fats, while radishes add dietary fiber and vitamins C and K. Green chilies contribute vitamin A and antioxidants, promoting overall health and well-being.
While this dish is flavorful, it can be high in sodium and fat, especially if not prepared with lean cuts of pork or excessive seasoning. Those with dietary restrictions should consider these factors before indulging.
For a lighter option, substitute the pork with skinless chicken or tofu, and use less oil and salt. This variation maintains the essence of Phaksha Paa while providing a healthier profile. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of steamed vegetables or brown rice for a balanced meal.
Phaksha Paa represents the Bhutanese practice of utilizing locally available ingredients and preserving meats for long winters. Chilies and radishes, common in Bhutanese cooking, add layers of flavor and texture, symbolizing the nation's reliance on simple yet nutritious ingredients to create hearty meals. Phaksha Paa is a comforting dish that is often enjoyed with rice, offering a fulfilling, homestyle taste of Bhutan.
Ingredients:
- 500g pork (preferably with some fat), diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup radishes, sliced
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 4-5 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust for spice)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Pork:
Mix diced pork with ginger, garlic, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Heat the Oil:
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat.
3. Sauté Onions and Chilies:
Add chopped onions and green chilies to the hot oil. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
4. Add Marinated Pork:
Stir in the marinated pork and cook until it is browned on all sides, releasing a fragrant aroma.
5. Incorporate Radishes:
Add the sliced radishes, mixing well with the pork and spices.
6. Simmer:
Pour in water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the pork is tender and the radishes are cooked (30-40 minutes).
7. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (add more salt or chili if desired).
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice.
Nutrition Value:
1. 500g pork (preferably with some fat), diced into bite-sized pieces
- Calories: Approximately 1,200
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: Approximately 90 grams
- Fat: Approximately 90 grams
- Sodium: Varies depending on preparation, about 150 mg
- Cholesterol: Approximately 250 mg
- Vitamins: Provides B vitamins, especially B12 and niacin
- Minerals: Rich in zinc, iron, and phosphorus
- Nutritional Benefit: Pork is a high-protein meat that supports muscle growth and repair, provides energy, and contributes essential vitamins and minerals important for overall health.
2. 1 cup radishes, sliced
- Calories: Approximately 18
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 4 grams
- Protein: Approximately 0.8 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 39 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C
- Minerals: Contains potassium, calcium, and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Radishes are low in calories and provide a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function, and minerals that contribute to cardiovascular health.
3. 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- Calories: Approximately 92
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 22 grams
- Protein: Approximately 2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 10 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Good source of vitamin C and vitamin B6
- Minerals: Contains potassium, calcium, and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Onions offer antioxidants and compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of certain diseases and support overall health.
4. 4-5 green chilies, finely chopped
- Calories: Approximately 18
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 4 grams
- Protein: Approximately 0.6 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 3 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C and A
- Minerals: Contains potassium and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Green chilies add a spicy kick and are high in vitamins and antioxidants that may help boost metabolism and support immune health.
5. 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Calories: Approximately 5
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C
- Minerals: Contains potassium and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties that can aid in digestion, reduce nausea, and contribute to overall wellness.
6. 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Calories: Approximately 4
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1 gram
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and vitamin B6
- Minerals: Contains manganese and calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Garlic provides beneficial compounds that may support cardiovascular health, enhance immune function, and have antimicrobial properties.
7. 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Calories: Approximately 8
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.5 grams
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and small amounts of vitamin B6
- Minerals: Contains iron and manganese
- Nutritional Benefit: Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may support joint health and overall well-being.
8. 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust for spice)
- Calories: Approximately 6
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1 gram
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin A and vitamin C
- Minerals: Contains iron and potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: Red chili powder adds flavor and contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and support digestive health.
9. Salt to taste
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Varies based on amount used
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: 0
- Minerals: Provides sodium
- Nutritional Benefit: Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake and support electrolyte balance.
10. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Calories: Approximately 240
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: Approximately 28 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin E
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Vegetable oil provides essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which support skin health and cardiovascular function.
11. 1 cup water
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: 0
- Minerals: 0
- Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration, digestion, and overall bodily functions.
12. Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Calories: Approximately 1
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.2 grams
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C and vitamin K
- Minerals: Contains potassium, calcium, and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Fresh coriander leaves add flavor and nutrients, including antioxidants and vitamins that support digestion and overall health.
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