Solomon Islands Breadfruit and Pork Stew
A hearty and comforting stew featuring tender chunks of pork and soft breadfruit, simmered in a rich coconut milk broth with aromatic spices. This dish highlights the staple ingredients of the Solomon Islands, offering a taste of traditional island cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 2 medium Breadfruit(peeled, cored, and cut into 1.5-inch chunks)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 teaspoons Curry powder
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 250 ml Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the pork cubes generously with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove pork and set aside.
- 3
Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- 6
Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the water and bring to a simmer.
- 7
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
- 8
Add the breadfruit chunks to the pot. Stir in the coconut milk. Bring back to a gentle simmer.
- 9
Cover and cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the breadfruit is tender and the stew has thickened slightly.
- 10
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the breadfruit is firm but not overripe for the best texture.
- ✓For a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili with the other aromatics.
- ✓If the stew is too thin, you can mash some of the breadfruit against the side of the pot to thicken it.
🔄 Variations
- Add other root vegetables like sweet potato or taro alongside the breadfruit.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pork and use firm tofu or more vegetables.