Henan-style Porilainen

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Finnish Porilainen is transformed into a Henan-inspired dish by incorporating Henan spices and flavors. The original dish typically consists of pork cutlets, cheese, and condiments like ketchup and mustard, served between two slices of bread. In the Henan-style Porilainen, the pork is marinated in a blend of Henan spices, and spicy chili sauce and pickled vegetables are added for an extra kick of flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Porilainen, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork loin, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) pork loin, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce 1 tablespoon chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
• 4 slices crusty bread 4 slices crusty bread
• 4 slices cheese (such as cheddar or Gouda) 4 slices cheese (such as cheddar or Gouda)
• Pickled vegetables (such as cucumber or radish), for serving Pickled vegetables (such as cucumber or radish), for serving
• Spicy chili sauce, for serving Spicy chili sauce, for serving
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili sauce, ground cumin, ground coriander, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns.
2. 2.
   Add the thinly sliced pork loin to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated pork slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, until cooked through and slightly charred.
4. 4.
   Toast the slices of crusty bread until golden brown.
5. 5.
   Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of cheese on each slice of bread. Top with the grilled pork slices, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of spicy chili sauce.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
7. 7.
   Serve the Henan-style Porilainen warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork loin — For best results, slice the pork loin thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry skillet before crushing them to enhance their aroma and flavor.
• Pickled vegetables — Feel free to use your favorite pickled vegetables, such as cucumber or radish, to add a tangy crunch to the sandwich.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of chili sauce or use a milder variety.
• Experiment with different types of bread, such as ciabatta or baguette, for a unique twist.
• Add a fried egg or crispy bacon to the sandwich for extra indulgence.
• Serve the Henan-style Porilainen with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad.
• Make extra pickled vegetables and spicy chili sauce to use as condiments for other dishes.

Serving advice

Serve the Henan-style Porilainen warm, either as a main course or as a hearty snack. Accompany it with a side of pickled vegetables and a refreshing beverage to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, cut the sandwich diagonally and place it on a wooden cutting board. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro and serve with a small ramekin of spicy chili sauce on the side.