Tongan-inspired Spiced Pork Torta

Ingredients

In this Tongan-inspired version of the torta, we incorporate Tongan spices such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic to marinate the pork, infusing it with the flavors of the South Pacific. Additionally, we use a Tongan-style mayo, which adds a tangy twist to the traditional Mexican sandwich. We alse have the original recipe for Torta, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 baguette, cut into sandwich-sized portions 1 baguette, cut into sandwich-sized portions
• Tongan-style mayo (recipe below) Tongan-style mayo (recipe below)
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, sliced 2 tomatoes, sliced
• Lettuce leaves Lettuce leaves
• Tongan-style Mayo: Tongan-style Mayo:
• 1 cup mayonnaise 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon Tongan hot sauce (optional) 1 teaspoon Tongan hot sauce (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, turmeric powder, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Add the sliced pork and marinate for at least 1 hour.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated pork slices until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. 3.
   While the pork is cooking, prepare the Tongan-style mayo by combining the mayonnaise, lime juice, and Tongan hot sauce (if using) in a small bowl. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Slice the baguette portions lengthwise and spread a generous amount of Tongan-style mayo on both sides.
5. 5.
   Layer the cooked pork, cucumber slices, tomato slices, and lettuce leaves on the baguette.
6. 6.
   Serve the Tongan-inspired Spiced Pork Torta immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shoulder — For best results, choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for juicy and flavorful meat.
• Turmeric powder — Turmeric stains easily, so be cautious while handling it to avoid staining your clothes or countertops.
• Tongan hot sauce — Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• If you can't find Tongan hot sauce, you can substitute it with your favorite hot sauce or chili paste.
• For added flavor, you can grill the baguette before assembling the torta.
• Customize your torta by adding sliced avocado, pickled onions, or cheese.

Serving advice

Serve the Tongan-inspired Spiced Pork Torta with a side of plantain chips or sweet potato fries for a complete Tongan culinary experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, cut the torta into smaller portions and serve them as sliders for a more elegant and appetizing display.