Caribbean Loin Of Pork In Black Sauce
A flavorful Caribbean pork loin roast cooked in a rich black sauce with olives, capers, raisins, and spices, perfect for hearty family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 to 5 lb. pork loin roast with or without bones ⓘ
- 2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 c. lard ⓘ
- 2 large onions, thickly sliced ⓘ
- 1/4 c. vinegar ⓘ
- 12 ripe olives, pitted and chopped ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. capers ⓘ
- 1/3 c. seedless raisins, chopped ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar or molasses ⓘ
- 4 c. water ⓘ
- 2 large or 4 small onions, chopped ⓘ
Instructions
- Sprinkle the pork loin with salt and pepper.
- Brown the meat on all sides in hot lard along with sliced onions.
- Once thoroughly browned, discard the onions.
- Pour off excess fat from the pan.
- Sprinkle the meat with vinegar.
- Add chopped olives, capers, raisins, brown sugar or molasses, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a very low simmer.
- Simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, turning the meat occasionally.
- Add chopped onions and continue simmering for 30 minutes.
- Add potatoes and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and sauce thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the pork loin overnight in salt, pepper, and vinegar. If you prefer a healthier alternative, substitute lard with olive oil or coconut oil. You can use dried cranberries instead of raisins for a fruitier taste and add some chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Ensure to keep the heat low during simmering to tenderize the pork perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Caribbean Loin Of Pork in Black Sauce with a side of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce. A fresh salad, like a Dutch Spinach Salad, complements the dish nicely, adding a refreshing crunch. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a flavorful coleslaw.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork and sauce in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, reheating in short intervals to avoid drying out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caribbean Loin Of Pork In Black Sauce contains roughly 449 calories, with 10g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (21% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1104mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as pork shoulder or tenderloin, but cooking times may vary. A shoulder will require a longer cooking time for tenderness, while a tenderloin will cook faster, so adjust accordingly to avoid dryness.
What can I serve with the Caribbean Loin Of Pork?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a light salad. You might also consider serving it with rice and beans for a complete Caribbean experience. For a unique twist, try it alongside a Baked Stuffed Rabbit With Carrots for a multi-meat feast.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the pork and onions in a pan first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender and flavorful. This method enhances the sauce and infuses the pork with rich flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).