Jerk pulled pork with banana salsa

Nothing brings the flavors of the Caribbean to your table quite like Jerk Pulled Pork with Banana Salsa. This dish combines the heat and aromatic spices of jerk seasoning with the sweet, tropical notes of banana salsa, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: The spice from the jerk seasoning paired with the sweetness of the banana salsa creates a mouthwatering contrast that’s both savory and refreshing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the pulled pork in tacos, on sandwiches, or served over rice. The banana salsa can also be a standalone side that pairs well with grilled meats and seafood.
• Easy to Prepare: While the dish takes some time to cook, the slow-cooking process allows the pork to absorb all the flavors, resulting in tender, juicy meat that’s worth the wait.

Ingredients

For the Jerk Pulled Pork

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Jerk Marinade

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero), deseeded and chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Banana Salsa

• 2 ripe bananas, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Blend the Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, green onions, garlic, Scotch bonnet peppers, ginger, allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper. Blend until smooth. This marinade is the key to infusing the pork with rich, vibrant flavors.
2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Pulled Pork

1. Sear the Pork: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the pork with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Slow Cook: Once the pork is seared, return it to the pot and add the remaining marinade. Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Mix in some of the cooking juices for added flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Make the Banana Salsa

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the diced bananas, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro.
2. Dress the Salsa: Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine, taking care not to mash the bananas. The freshness of the salsa complements the spicy pork beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the jerk pulled pork warm, topped with banana salsa. This dish pairs excellently with rice and peas, corn tortillas, or even on a toasted bun for a delicious pulled pork sandwich. You can also serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the pork.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover jerk pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. The banana salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a day; just add a splash of lime juice to keep the bananas from browning.

Conclusion

Jerk Pulled Pork with Banana Salsa is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the essence of the Caribbean to your kitchen. With its rich spices and tropical notes, it’s a meal that’s sure to create lasting memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your cooking and delight your guests. Enjoy the burst of flavors, and let the warmth of jerk seasoning and the freshness of banana salsa transport you to sunny shores!