Discover how to make Ravitoto, a traditional dish featuring tender pork slow-cooked with cassava leaves in a rich, savory sauce. This authentic recipe combines the earthy flavors of cassava leaves with succulent pork, creating a hearty and delicious meal. Perfect for those who love exploring unique and flavorful dishes from diverse cuisines. 

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into chunks

- 2 cups cassava leaves, fresh or frozen (thawed if frozen)

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1 cup coconut milk

- 1 cup pork or chicken broth

- 2 tablespoons soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon fish sauce

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: 1-2 hot chili peppers, sliced (for heat)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pork:

  - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

  - Add the pork chunks and brown on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics:

  - In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Build the Sauce:

  - Add the tomato paste to the pot and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

  - Return the pork to the pot and pour in the coconut milk and broth. Stir to combine.

Season:

  - Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Simmer:

  - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and fully cooked.

Add Cassava Leaves:

  - Stir in the cassava leaves and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and the flavors are well blended. If using hot chili peppers, add them during this stage for extra heat.

Adjut Seasoning:

  - Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or fish sauce if needed.

Serve:

  - Serve the Ravitoto hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Enjoy your Ravitoto, a delicious and comforting meal perfect for any occasion!

Nutritional Values:

Pork Shoulder or Pork Belly

 - Calories: 242

 - Protein: 27 grams

 - Fat: 15 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

Benefits:

 - High in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.

 - Provides essential nutrients like B vitamins (B6, B12) for energy metabolism and zinc for immune function.

Cassava Leaves

 - Calories: 83

 - Protein: 4 grams

 - Fat: 0.5 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 12 grams

 - Fiber: 3 grams

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune health and skin integrity. Contains calcium and iron for bone health and blood production.

 - Contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

Onion

 - Calories: 40

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Fat: 0.1 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

 - Fiber: 1.7 grams

Benefits:

 - High in antioxidants like quercetin, which help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

 - Provides vitamin C and B vitamins, which boost the immune system and energy levels.

Garlic

 - Calories: 149

 - Protein: 6 grams

 - Fat: 0.5 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 33 grams

 - Fiber: 2.1 grams

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

 - May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Tomato Paste

 - Calories: 82

 - Protein: 4 grams

 - Fat: 0.5 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 18 grams

 - Fiber: 2.5 grams

Benefits:

 - Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases and improved heart health.

 - Provides vitamin C and potassium, supporting immune function and heart health.

Coconut Milk

 - Calories: 230

 - Protein: 2 grams

 - Fat: 24 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

Benefits:

 - Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide quick energy and may aid in weight management.

 - Provides small amounts of vitamins C, E, and several B vitamins.

Pork or Chicken Broth

 - Calories: 15

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Fat: 0 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

Benefits:

 - Helps with hydration and provides a low-calorie way to add flavor to dishes.

 - Contains minerals like sodium and potassium, which support electrolyte balance and overall health.

Soy Sauce

 - Calories: 53

 - Protein: 6 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 5 grams

 - Sodium: 5,000 mg

Benefits:

 - Adds umami flavor to dishes, enhancing taste without adding significant calories.

 - Contains small amounts of antioxidants from fermented soy.

Fish Sauce

 - Calories: 35

 - Protein: 7 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 2 grams

 - Sodium: 6,000 mg

Benefits:

 - Adds depth of flavor to dishes with minimal calories.

 - Provides protein derived from fish, which supports muscle and tissue health.

Paprika

 - Calories: 282

 - Protein: 14 grams

 - Fat: 13 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 54 grams

 - Fiber: 30 grams

Benefits:

 - Rich in antioxidants like capsaicin, which can help reduce inflammation and pain.

 - High in vitamins A and C, supporting vision, skin health, and immune function.

This Ravitoto recipe not only provides a flavorful meal but also offers various health benefits through its ingredients, including high protein content, essential vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Enjoy this dish while reaping its nutritional rewards!