Pua'a Sio'ata
Pua'a Sio'ata is a traditional Tuvaluan dish featuring slow-cooked pork, often prepared for special occasions. It involves marinating pork in a flavorful mixture and then slow-cooking it until tender. This dish highlights the importance of pork in Tuvaluan celebrations and the use of local ingredients for flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Pork shoulder
- 4 tbsp Soy sauce
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tbsp Ginger(grated)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 200 ml Coconut milk
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 4 large Banana leaves(for wrapping, optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cut the pork shoulder into large, 1-2 inch cubes.
- 2
In a bowl, combine the pork cubes with soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated.
- 3
Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or preferably for a few hours in the refrigerator.
- 4
If using banana leaves, briefly warm them over a flame or in hot water to make them pliable. Line a baking dish or pot with the banana leaves, or prepare to wrap the pork directly in them.
- 5
Place the marinated pork into the prepared dish or wrap it securely in banana leaves. Pour the coconut milk over the pork.
- 6
Cover the dish tightly with a lid or foil, or ensure the banana leaf parcels are well-sealed.
- 7
Slow-cook the pork in an oven preheated to 160°C (325°F) for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pork is very tender and falling apart. Alternatively, cook in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- 8
Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks. Serve hot, with the accumulated juices from the cooking.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic 'imu' (underground oven) cooking method, prepare a pit with hot stones and bury the wrapped pork. This method requires significant preparation and time.
- ✓If banana leaves are unavailable, you can use parchment paper and aluminum foil as a substitute for wrapping the pork.
- ✓Adjust the amount of garlic, ginger, and chili (if using) to your personal preference for spice and flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of liquid smoke for a more pronounced smoky flavor, reminiscent of traditional imu cooking.
- Include other aromatics like lemongrass or a pinch of chili flakes for added complexity.