RecipesTongaTongan Roast Pork with Taro

Tongan Roast Pork with Taro

A celebratory Tongan dish featuring succulent slow-roasted pork, often cooked in an umu (earth oven), served with tender steamed taro.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time3-4 hours
Total Time3.5-4.5 hours
Servings8
DifficultyMedium
Tongan Roast Pork with Taro - Tonga traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 2 kg Pork shoulder(bone-in, skin on)
  • 2 tbsp Salt
  • 1 tbsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
  • 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 400 ml Coconut milk
  • 1 kg Taro root(peeled and cut into large chunks)
  • 4-6 large Banana leaves(for wrapping)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).

    💡 Tip: Low and slow is key for tender pork.
  2. 2

    Score the pork skin deeply with a sharp knife. Rub generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic, ensuring it gets into the scores.

  3. 3

    Place the pork on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the coconut milk into the bottom of the pan.

    💡 Tip: The coconut milk will baste the pork as it cooks.
  4. 4

    Roast for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is very tender and the skin is crispy. Baste occasionally with the pan juices.

  5. 5

    About 45 minutes before the pork is done, prepare the taro. Place taro chunks on banana leaves, wrap them securely, and steam or boil until tender.

    💡 Tip: Steaming preserves more flavor than boiling.
  6. 6

    Once the pork is cooked, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Serve slices of roast pork with the steamed taro.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For an authentic umu flavor, consider using a traditional earth oven if possible.
  • Ensure the pork skin is dry before roasting for maximum crispiness.
  • Adjust roasting time based on the size and thickness of the pork shoulder.

🔄 Variations

  • Marinate the pork overnight with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for added flavor.
  • Serve with a side of fresh tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya.

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