Discover the authentic flavors of Samoa with this traditional Samoan Pork recipe. Tender pork is cooked with a blend of traditional Samoan spices and wrapped in banana leaves to infuse it with a unique, aromatic flavor. Perfect for special occasions or a flavorful dinner, this recipe brings a taste of Samoan cuisine right to your table. Try it out and enjoy a delightful taste of the South Pacific!

Ingredients:

- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon fish sauce

- 1 tablespoon Samoan allspice (or a blend of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg)

- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 6-8 large banana leaves, cleaned and trimmed

Instructions:

Prepare the Pork:

  - In a large bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, allspice, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  - Add the pork chunks to the bowl and mix well to coat the pork evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preheat the Oven:

  - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Wrap the Pork:

  - Cut the banana leaves into large squares, enough to wrap around each piece of pork. If the leaves are stiff, you can briefly heat them over a flame or in boiling water to make them more pliable.

  - Place a few pieces of pork in the center of each banana leaf square. Fold the leaves over the pork to wrap it securely.

Cook the Pork:

  - Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the wrapped pork on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.

  - Transfer the wrapped pork to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.

  - Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and cooked through.

Serve:

  - Carefully unwrap the banana leaves and serve the pork hot. Enjoy with your favorite sides and a touch of traditional Samoan flair!

Enjoy this traditional Samoan Pork recipe that combines the richness of pork with the distinctive flavors of Samoan spices, all wrapped up in aromatic banana leaves!

Nutritional Values

Pork Shoulder (2 pounds or 900g)

  - Calories: 1,600 kcal

  - Protein: 90g

  - Fat: 140g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Rich in high-quality protein, vitamins B12, and minerals such as zinc and iron. Supports muscle growth and overall health.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: 240 kcal

  - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, which can support heart health. 

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

  - Calories: 16 kcal

  - Protein: 0.8g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. May boost immune function.

Fresh Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced)

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. May help with nausea and improve circulation.

Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon)

  - Calories: 10 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains small amounts of protein and minerals like sodium.

Fish Sauce (1 tablespoon)

  - Calories: 10 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Adds umami flavor and contains some protein and minerals. 

Samoan Allspice (1 tablespoon)

  - Calories: 10 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Provides a blend of spices that may have antioxidant properties and add complex flavors.

Ground Turmeric (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Supports joint health and digestion.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.3g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin A. Adds flavor and color.

Salt (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Enhances flavor and helps maintain electrolyte balance. Should be used in moderation.

Black Pepper (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Contains piperine, which aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.

Banana Leaves (6-8 large, cleaned and trimmed)

  - Calories: 0 kcal (negligible)

Benefits: Used for wrapping and cooking. Adds subtle flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking.

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.