Oceanic-inspired Smalec

Ingredients

In this Oceanic-inspired version of Smalec, we replace the traditional pork fat with a combination of coconut oil and avocado oil to infuse the dish with tropical flavors. Additionally, we incorporate Oceanic spices such as lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric to enhance the taste profile. The garnish of fresh herbs and the addition of pickles provide a refreshing twist to the original recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Smalec, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) coconut oil 1 cup (240ml) coconut oil
• 1 cup (240ml) avocado oil 1 cup (240ml) avocado oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), for garnish
• Pickles, for serving Pickles, for serving
• Crusty bread or crackers, for serving Crusty bread or crackers, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 / 502
• Fat: 14g / 122.5g (total / saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 1g / 4.2g (total / sugars)
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, heat the coconut oil and avocado oil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bruised lemongrass, and grated ginger to the saucepan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. 3.
   Stir in the turmeric powder, sea salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   Remove the lemongrass stalks from the mixture and discard.
6. 6.
   Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the mixture to remove any solids.
7. 7.
   Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a jar or container.
8. 8.
   Refrigerate the Oceanic-inspired Smalec for at least 2 hours, or until it solidifies.
9. 9.
   Once chilled and solid, garnish with fresh herbs and serve with pickles and crusty bread or crackers.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalks by gently pounding them with a rolling pin or the back of a knife. This helps release the aromatic oils and flavors.
• Turmeric powder — Be cautious when handling turmeric powder as it can stain surfaces and clothing. Use a spoon or wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Experiment with different fresh herbs for garnish, such as basil or mint, to add a unique twist to the dish.
• Serve the Oceanic-inspired Smalec as a dip for vegetable sticks or as a spread on sandwiches for a burst of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Oceanic-inspired Smalec at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, drizzle a small amount of avocado oil on top of the Oceanic-inspired Smalec and sprinkle some chili flakes or fresh herbs for an added pop of color.