Samoan Pulled Pork - Slow-cooked Keke Pua'a

Ingredients

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) pork shoulder, boneless 2 kg (4.4 lbs) pork shoulder, boneless
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons chili paste 2 tablespoons chili paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 2g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, chili paste, brown sugar, soy sauce, tomato paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, vegetable oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Rub the pork shoulder with the marinade, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
4. 4.
   Place the marinated pork shoulder in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth around it.
5. 5.
   Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and slow-cook in the preheated oven for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart.
6. 6.
   Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
7. 7.
   Serve the pulled pork hot, drizzled with the cooking juices from the pan.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shoulder — Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Chili paste — Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
• Smoked paprika — If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the marinade.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili paste or add some chopped fresh chili peppers.
• Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns with coleslaw for a delicious sandwich.
• Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and used in various dishes like tacos, quesadillas, or salads.
• For a more authentic Samoan experience, serve the pulled pork with traditional side dishes like taro root, palusami, or fa'apapa.

Serving advice

Serve the Samoan Pulled Pork as a main dish, accompanied by steamed rice or traditional Samoan side dishes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pulled pork on a platter, allowing the glistening strands to take center stage. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the pork for an appetizing sheen. Serve with a side of vibrant tropical fruits for a visually appealing presentation.