Melanesian-style Slow-cooked Meat from Međimurje

Ingredients

In this Melanesian adaptation, the traditional Croatian Međimursko meso 'z tiblice is transformed by incorporating Melanesian spices and flavors. The original slow-cooked meat dish is enhanced with aromatic spices such as turmeric, ginger, and lemongrass, giving it a tropical twist. The cooking technique remains the same, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy. The result is a fusion of Croatian and Melanesian cuisines, creating a delightful and exotic dish. We alse have the original recipe for Međimursko meso 'z tiblice, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) boneless meat (such as pork or beef), cubed 2 pounds (900g) boneless meat (such as pork or beef), cubed
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon ginger powder 1 tablespoon ginger powder
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
• 2 cups (470ml) coconut milk 2 cups (470ml) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the cubed meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Stir in the turmeric powder, ginger powder, and bruised lemongrass stalks.
5. 5.
   Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. 7.
   Remove the lemongrass stalks before serving.
8. 8.
   Serve the Melanesian-style slow-cooked meat with steamed rice or root vegetables.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalks by lightly pounding them with a rolling pin or the back of a knife. This helps release the aromatic oils and flavors into the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the meat in the spice mixture overnight before cooking.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.
• Serve the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
• Leftovers can be used to make delicious sandwiches or wraps.

Serving advice

Serve the Melanesian-style slow-cooked meat with steamed rice or root vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. The tender meat pairs perfectly with the fluffy rice or the earthy flavors of root vegetables.

Presentation advice

Present the dish by arranging the tender meat pieces on a bed of steamed rice or alongside colorful root vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs and a wedge of lime for an appealing and vibrant presentation.