How to Make Pork Hamon: A Comprehensive Guide to a Filipino Delicacy

Pork hamon, a delectable Filipino dish, tantalizes taste buds with its succulent pork marinated in a symphony of pineapple juice and soy sauce. This culinary masterpiece is often the centerpiece of special occasions and weekend gatherings, bringing families and friends together to savor its irresistible flavors.

Ingredients for Pork Hamon

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 lbs pork ham hock
• 1 piece Knorr Pork Cube
• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 6 pieces pineapple slices
• 6 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 to 5 cups water
• 1 piece onion, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons cooking oil
• Ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork Ham Hock:

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice and soy sauce.
   • Place the pork ham hock in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over it.
   • Seal the bag, removing any excess air, and refrigerate for at least overnight.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

   • Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Add the minced onion and sauté until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté until fragrant and lightly browned.

3. Sear the Pork Ham Hock:

   • Remove the pork ham hock from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
   • Add the pork ham hock to the pan with the sautéed aromatics and sear on all sides for about 1 minute per side.

4. Simmer the Pork Ham Hock:

   • Pour the remaining marinade into the pan.
   • Add the water and Knorr Pork Cube.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
   • Turn the pork ham hock over and continue to simmer for another hour.

5. Add Sweetness and Pineapple:

   • Add the brown sugar and pineapple slices to the pan.
   • Cover and continue to simmer for 15 minutes.

6. Season and Reduce Sauce:

   • Season with ground black pepper to taste.
   • Continue to simmer until the sauce has reduced by half.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Transfer the pork ham hock to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
   • Serve with warm white or brown rice, and savor the delectable flavors of pork hamon.

Tips for Perfect Pork Hamon

• For a more intense flavor, marinate the pork ham hock for longer, up to 24 hours.
• If you don’t have a pork ham hock, you can substitute it with a slab of pork belly (liempo) or pork tenderloin.
• To make the dish even more flavorful, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or fish sauce to the marinade.
• Serve the pork hamon with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Pork hamon is a culinary gem that embodies the richness and flavors of Filipino cuisine. By following these step-by-step instructions and incorporating the provided tips, you can recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen and impress your family and friends with your culinary prowess. So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories around the dinner table.