Aztec South American Chocolate and Chilli Glazed Pork Strips

🍫🌶️ Aztec South American Chocolate and Chilli Glazed Pork Strips 🍖

📜 History:
This mouthwatering dish is a fusion of ancient Aztec flavors and South American culinary influences. The Aztecs, who inhabited Mexico before the Spanish conquest, were known for their sophisticated use of chocolate and chili in cooking. The combination of sweet and spicy ingredients in their cuisine continues to be celebrated today.

📋 Components:
To make this delectable dish, you will need the following components:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of pork loin or tenderloin, sliced into strips
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1-2 fresh red chilies (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

🔪 Preparation Steps:
Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

   • In a blender, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, fresh red chilies, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
   • Blend until you have a smooth, spicy chocolate paste.

2. Marinate the Pork:

   • Place the pork strips in a bowl and coat them with the cocoa-chili paste.
   • Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to infuse into the meat.

3. Sear the Pork:

   • Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the marinated pork strips and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are browned and cooked through.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
   • Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens into a rich glaze.

5. Glaze the Pork:

   • Pour the glaze over the cooked pork strips, ensuring they are well-coated.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro to add a burst of freshness to the dish.
   • Serve the Aztec South American Chocolate and Chilli Glazed Pork Strips hot.

⏲️ Preparation Time:
The total preparation time for this dish is approximately 45 minutes, including marinating time. It’s a perfect combination of sweet and spicy, and the chocolate adds a unique depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this Aztec-inspired masterpiece! 🍴🌮

🥗 Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🏋️‍♂️

Here’s some nutrition information and health considerations for the Aztec South American Chocolate and Chilli Glazed Pork Strips:

📊 Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: About 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion size and the cut of pork used.
• Protein: Pork is a good source of protein, providing approximately 25-30 grams per serving.
• Fats: This dish contains moderate amounts of healthy fats from the pork and olive oil. Expect around 15-20 grams of total fat.
• Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates in this dish primarily come from the brown sugar and cocoa. You might find 20-25 grams of carbs in a serving.
• Fiber: There’s minimal dietary fiber in this dish.
• Sugars: Due to the use of brown sugar, there may be around 10-15 grams of sugar per serving.
• Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on your choice of broth and any additional salt you add. Be mindful of your salt intake.

🌱 Health Information:

• Protein: Pork is a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Fats: While this dish contains fats, it’s not overly high. The use of olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Carbohydrates: The carbs mainly come from sugars in the glaze. While cocoa contains antioxidants, be aware of sugar intake for those watching their sugar levels.
• Spices: Chili and cumin offer potential health benefits. Chili peppers can boost metabolism, and cumin may have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes, as it can affect calorie and nutrient intake.
• Balance: To make this dish more nutritious, you can pair it with a side of vegetables or a salad to increase fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Remember that the exact nutritional content can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. If you have dietary concerns or specific health goals, it’s a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized guidance. 🍽️🥦🥗