Karnacheta with a Caribbean Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Bulgarian Karnacheta with the vibrant flavors of the Dominican Republic. The original dish is typically prepared with pork, but we enhance it by marinating the meat in a blend of Caribbean spices and adding tropical ingredients like pineapple and bell peppers. This fusion creates a unique and exciting twist on the classic Karnacheta, infusing it with the bold and aromatic flavors of Dominican cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Karnacheta, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup pineapple chunks 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the pork, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2. 2.
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. 3.
   Add the pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the peppers are tender-crisp.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the dish and stir to combine.
5. 5.
   Serve the Caribbean Spiced Karnacheta hot, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pineapple — Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor. If fresh is not available, you can use canned pineapple chunks, drained.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the marinade.
• If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade.
• Serve the Caribbean Spiced Karnacheta with a side of rice and beans for a complete Dominican meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean Spiced Karnacheta hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Accompany it with a side of rice and beans or fried plantains for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the cooked pork, pineapple chunks, and bell peppers on a platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side.