Don’t Miss Out On This Mouth-watering Delight: How To Make The Ultimate Bhutanese Pork Curry

Bhutanese pork curry, also known as Shakam Paa, is a tantalizing dish that captures the essence of Bhutanese cuisine. Its vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and succulent pork create a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds dancing. If you’re eager to embark on a gastronomic adventure, follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to make Bhutanese pork curry at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sear the pork in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onion to the pot and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for a minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

3. Add the Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to enhance its flavor.

4. Return the Pork: Add the seared pork back to the pot along with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the pork is tender.

5. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the curry and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to your preference.

6. Thicken the Sauce: If desired, you can thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water). Bring the curry to a boil, then add the slurry and stir until thickened.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Bhutanese pork curry hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips:

• For a bolder flavor, use a combination of ground cumin and coriander seeds and toast them in a pan before grinding.
• If you don’t have tomato puree, you can blend fresh tomatoes until smooth.
• For a richer curry, use pork belly instead of pork shoulder.
• Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or chutney for a refreshing contrast.

Culinary Variations:

• Spicy Bhutanese Pork Curry: Increase the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.
• Creamy Bhutanese Pork Curry: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk or heavy cream to the curry for a creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Bhutanese Pork Curry: Substitute the pork with firm tofu or vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or peas.

Health Benefits:

• Pork is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc.
• Onions, garlic, and ginger have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Common Questions and Answers

1. What type of pork is best for this curry?

• Pork shoulder is ideal as it has a good amount of fat, which adds flavor and tenderness to the dish.

2. Can I use ground pork instead of pork shoulder?

• Yes, but the texture will be different. Ground pork tends to cook faster and can dry out easily.

3. How long can I store Bhutanese pork curry?

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze Bhutanese pork curry?

• Yes, freeze the curry in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

5. What are some side dishes that pair well with Bhutanese pork curry?

• Steamed rice, roti (flatbread), or a side of pickled vegetables or chutney.