Pork Floss Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon black tea powder
- 1 medium-sized pumpkin (approximately 2 pounds)
- 1/2 cup pork floss (dried shredded pork)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Black Tea Marinade:
- In a small bowl, mix the black tea powder with 1/2 cup of hot water. Allow the tea to steep for 3-4 minutes, then strain and let it cool. This mixture will be used to add a unique flavor to the pumpkin.
Prepare the Pumpkin:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds. Place the pumpkin halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork.
Prepare the Pork Floss Topping:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and paprika to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the pork floss and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish:
- Remove the baked pumpkin from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a spoon to scoop out some of the soft pumpkin flesh, leaving a thin layer on the skin.
- Mix the reserved pumpkin flesh with the pork floss mixture until well combined.
- Stuff the pumpkin shells with the pork floss and pumpkin mixture, mounding the filling slightly.
Finish and Serve:
- Return the stuffed pumpkin to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the top is slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, crumbled feta cheese.
- Serve the Pork Floss Roasted Pumpkin warm, enjoying the combination of the sweet pumpkin and savory pork floss with a hint of black tea flavor. This dish is perfect for a hearty fall meal or as a side dish for a festive gathering.