Guinean-Style Spiced Roast Pork

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Italian porchetta, the Guinean-style spiced roast pork incorporates traditional Guinean spices and flavors, giving it a unique twist. The original Italian porchetta typically uses herbs like rosemary, fennel, and garlic, while this Guinean version incorporates ginger, garlic, chili, and coriander to infuse the pork with the vibrant flavors of Guinean cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Porchetta, so you can check it out.

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) boneless pork belly 2 kg (4.4 lbs) boneless pork belly
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 0g, 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, chili powder, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper to create a spice paste.
3. 3.
   Place the pork belly on a clean surface and score the skin with a sharp knife.
4. 4.
   Rub the spice paste all over the pork belly, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. 5.
   Roll the pork belly tightly and secure it with kitchen twine.
6. 6.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat.
7. 7.
   Sear the rolled pork belly on all sides until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
8. 8.
   Transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven and roast the pork for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 65°C (150°F).
9. 9.
   Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
10. 10.
    Slice the Guinean-Style Spiced Roast Pork into thick slices and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork belly — Choose a piece of pork belly with a good balance of meat and fat for the best flavor and texture.
• Ginger — Use fresh ginger for its vibrant flavor. Grating it ensures it blends well with the other spices.
• Chili powder — Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the pork belly in the spice paste overnight in the refrigerator.
• Baste the pork belly with its own juices during the roasting process to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Serve the Guinean-Style Spiced Roast Pork with a side of spicy tomato sauce for an added kick.

Serving advice

Serve the Guinean-Style Spiced Roast Pork as the centerpiece of a festive meal. Accompany it with traditional Guinean sides such as jollof rice, fried plantains, and a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Present the sliced Guinean-Style Spiced Roast Pork on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. The crispy skin and juicy meat will be visually appealing and inviting.