Afelia is a traditional Cypriot dish made with pork marinated in coriander seeds and red wine. Here’s detailed information about it:
What is Afelia?
Afelia is a flavorful pork dish that originates from Cyprus. It’s characterized by its rich, tangy taste, which comes from the combination of coriander seeds and red wine in the marinade.
History:
The history of Afelia can be traced back to the culinary traditions of Cyprus. It’s a dish that has been enjoyed by Cypriots for generations and is often served on special occasions and holidays.
Components:
To make Afelia, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pork (usually pork shoulder or pork tenderloin), cut into chunks
- Coriander seeds
- Red wine
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Bay leaves
- Salt and pepper
Steps to Prepare Afelia:
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Marinate the Pork:
- In a bowl, combine the coriander seeds (crushed or ground), minced garlic cloves, red wine, olive oil, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Place the pork chunks in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl and pour the marinade over them.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow the pork to marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or ideally overnight.
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Cooking:
- When you’re ready to cook, remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. You don’t need to add extra oil since the pork has been marinating in olive oil.
- Add the marinated pork and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
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Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the pork simmer in the marinade for about 30-40 minutes or until it’s tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally.
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Serve:
- Afelia is typically served with a side of rice or potatoes. You can spoon the delicious coriander-infused sauce over the pork when serving.
Time Needed:
- Marinating Time: 2-4 hours or overnight
- Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
The total time needed to prepare Afelia will depend on the marinating time you choose. It’s a dish that rewards patience as the longer the pork marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.
Enjoy your delicious Afelia, and I hope this detailed guide helps you prepare it to perfection!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Afelia, a dish made with pork marinated in coriander and red wine:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate Values):
- Calories: 350-400 calories
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2-5 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Fat: 25-30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
- Cholesterol: 80-100 milligrams
- Sodium: 500-600 milligrams
- Potassium: 400-500 milligrams
Health Information:
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Protein Source: Afelia is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
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Moderate Carbohydrates: This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
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Healthy Fats: While Afelia does contain some fat, it’s primarily from olive oil, which is considered a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.
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Moderate Calories: Afelia can fit into a balanced diet, but portion control is important due to its calorie content.
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Sodium Content: The sodium content can vary depending on how much salt is used in the marinade. Be mindful of the salt if you’re watching your sodium intake.
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Rich in Flavors: The use of coriander seeds and red wine in the marinade adds unique flavors and antioxidants to the dish.
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Balanced Meal: When served with a side of vegetables or a salad, Afelia can be part of a well-rounded meal.
Remember that the specific nutrition values can vary based on factors like portion size and the exact ingredients used. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s advisable to adjust the recipe accordingly or consult with a nutritionist for personalized advice.
