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Black Pork Curry Recipe

Black Pork Curry Recipe

Ingredients
4
Person(s)
  • 600 g
    Pork Shoulder Steaks
  • 2 tsp (Roasted)
    Curry Powder
  • 2 tsp (Unroasted)
    Curry Powder
  • 2 tsp
    Chili Powder
  • 1 tsp (Roasted)
    Chili Powder
  • 2 tsp
    Garcinia Cambogia Paste (goraka)
  • 3
    Cardamoms
  • 3 Cloves
  • 1 1/4 tsp
    Salt
  • 4
    Garlic
  • 2 cm
    Ginger
  • 1/3 cup
    Onion
  • 1
    Lemongrass
  • 1
    Pandan Leaf
  • 1 Sprig
    Curry Leaves
  • 1 tbsp
    Coconut Oil
  • 1/4 cup
    Water
Directions
  • Marinate Pork

    Combine pork with all curry powders, chili powder, goraka paste, cardamom, cloves, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.

  • Prepare Aromatics

    In a pan, heat coconut oil. Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, pandan, lemongrass, and curry leaves for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and golden.

  • Cook the Pork

    Add marinated pork to the pan. Sear for 6–8 minutes until lightly browned. Stir often to toast the spices.

  • Simmer

    Add ¼ cup water. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally until pork is tender and sauce thickens into a dark, bold gravy.

Nutritions
  • Calories:
    410 kcal
  • Protein:
    29 g
  • Fat:
    31 g
  • Carbs:
    4 g
  • Fiber:
    2 g
Deep, smoky, tangy — this iconic black curry brings bold flavors to your plate.

Deep, smoky, tangy — this iconic black curry brings bold flavors to your plate. This Black Pork Curry is rich, fiery, and uniquely tangy — a dish that blends earthy roasted spices, tamarind-like goraka, and succulent pork slow-cooked into bold, caramelized perfection.

Made with aromatic curry leaves, lemongrass, pandan, and garlic, it delivers a punch of authentic Asian-style curry flavor. A staple in traditional home kitchens, this no-frills curry is perfect with rice or flatbread. If you love strong, spicy gravies and tender meat, this is for you.

Flavor Profile & Cooking Tips for Black Pork Curry

  • Roasted Spices: Toasting the curry powder and chili powder before adding them to the dish enhances their depth and smokiness.
  • Goraka (Garcinia Cambogia): This souring agent not only adds tang but also helps tenderize the pork while balancing the richness of the fat.
  • Slow Cooking: Letting the pork simmer gently allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
  • Coconut Oil: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps carry the spices throughout the dish.

For best results, marinate the pork with salt, chili powder, and goraka paste for at least an hour before cooking. This step infuses the meat with flavor and ensures a more cohesive curry.

Key Ingredients in Authentic Black Pork Curry

  • Pork Shoulder Steaks: Ideal for slow cooking due to their marbling and texture.
  • Curry Powder & Chili Powder: Choose a robust blend with roasted notes for authenticity.
  • Garlic, Ginger & Onion: The aromatic base that builds the curry’s depth.
  • Lemongrass & Pandan Leaf: These add a subtle citrusy and floral undertone.
  • Curry Leaves: Essential for that unmistakable Sri Lankan aroma.

🥗 Health Notes

Pork shoulder is high in protein and iron, but also rich in fat, so consume in moderation. Goraka (Garcinia) is traditionally known to aid digestion and reduce cholesterol. Coconut oil, while flavorful, should be used sparingly if you’re watching saturated fat intake.

This dish is great as a weekend indulgence or festive meal — bold, satisfying, and deeply comforting.

📝 Final Thought

Black Pork Curry is not just a dish — it’s a flavor-packed experience. From the roasted spices to the dark rich gravy, it’s a powerful reminder of how beautifully bold a curry can be. Serve this sumptuous dish with steamed rice or bread for a truly authentic and memorable culinary experience.

Enjoy the rich blend of spices and the delightful taste in every bite of this remarkable Pork Curry. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression.