Nigerian-style Spiced Roast Pork

Ingredients

In this Nigerian adaptation of Porchetta, we incorporate the bold and spicy flavors of Suya, a popular Nigerian spice blend. The original Italian Porchetta typically features a combination of herbs such as rosemary, fennel, and garlic, while our Nigerian-style version introduces ground peanuts, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers to create a unique and vibrant flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Porchetta di Monte San Savino, so you can check it out.

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) boneless pork belly 2 kg (4.4 lbs) boneless pork belly
• 4 tablespoons ground peanuts 4 tablespoons ground peanuts
• 2 tablespoons ginger powder 2 tablespoons ginger powder
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 35g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the ground peanuts, ginger powder, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt to create the Suya spice blend.
3. 3.
   Place the pork belly on a clean surface and score the skin in a crisscross pattern using a sharp knife.
4. 4.
   Rub the Suya spice blend all over the pork, 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 over medium-high heat. Sear the pork belly on all sides until browned.
7. 7.
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F).
8. 8.
   Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
9. 9.
   Slice the Nigerian-style Spiced Roast Pork into thick slices and serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground Peanuts — Ensure that the ground peanuts are fresh and free from any added salt or sugar. You can grind roasted peanuts at home or purchase pre-ground peanut powder from a trusted source.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the pork belly in the Suya spice blend overnight in the refrigerator.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Suya spice blend.
• Serve the Nigerian-style Spiced Roast Pork with a side of fresh tomato and onion salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the sliced Nigerian-style Spiced Roast Pork on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. Accompany it with traditional Nigerian sides like Jollof Rice, Fried Plantains, and a spicy Suya dipping sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced Nigerian-style Spiced Roast Pork in an overlapping pattern on the platter, allowing the crispy skin to be visible. Drizzle a small amount of the Suya dipping sauce over the pork for an attractive presentation.