Oceanic-inspired Pulled Pork Buns

Ingredients

In this Oceanic-inspired adaptation of Gua bao, we infuse the traditional Taiwanese dish with the flavors of the oceanic cuisine. The original Gua bao typically features braised pork belly, whereas our recipe uses pulled pork marinated in tropical fruits and spices. Additionally, we incorporate a pineapple slaw and lime aioli to enhance the tropical flavors and add a refreshing twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Gua bao, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, boneless 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, boneless
• 1 cup (240ml) pineapple juice 1 cup (240ml) pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 small buns, steamed or toasted 8 small buns, steamed or toasted
• 1 cup (240ml) pineapple slaw (shredded cabbage, pineapple chunks, lime juice, and cilantro) 1 cup (240ml) pineapple slaw (shredded cabbage, pineapple chunks, lime juice, and cilantro)
• Lime aioli (mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and garlic), for drizzling Lime aioli (mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and garlic), for drizzling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Place the pork shoulder in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Discard the marinade.
4. 4.
   Cover the pan with foil and roast the pork for 3-4 hours, or until it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
5. 5.
   Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, shred the pork using two forks.
6. 6.
   To assemble the buns, spread a spoonful of lime aioli on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a generous amount of pulled pork and pineapple slaw. Drizzle with more lime aioli.
7. 7.
   Serve the Oceanic-inspired Pulled Pork Buns immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shoulder — Choose a well-marbled cut for tender and juicy pulled pork.
• Pineapple juice — Opt for 100% pure pineapple juice without any added sugars or artificial flavors.
• Lime aioli — Adjust the amount of lime juice according to your preference for tanginess.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra tropical touch, add a slice of grilled pineapple to each bun.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some chili flakes on top of the pulled pork.
• Substitute the pork with pulled chicken or jackfruit for a vegetarian version.
• Serve the buns with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
• Make the pulled pork in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for easy meal prep.

Serving advice

Serve the Oceanic-inspired Pulled Pork Buns as a main course for a tropical-themed dinner party or as a delicious lunch option. Accompany them with a side of fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the buns on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve with lime wedges on the side. This will add a vibrant touch to the presentation and allow guests to customize the flavors according to their preference.