SPECIAL PORK HAMONADO ROLL

Pork Hamonado Roll: A Timeless Holiday Delight

When it comes to Filipino cuisine, few dishes capture the festive spirit and familial warmth quite like Pork Hamonado Roll. This ultimate holiday dish is a star at all occasions, particularly cherished for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Marinated in sugar and pineapple juice overnight, the meat develops a delightful umami taste that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.

The beauty of Pork Hamonado Roll lies not only in its rich, complex flavors but also in its deep cultural roots. It’s a dish that brings people together, symbolizing the joy and warmth of Filipino hospitality. Whether it’s a Christmas feast, a birthday celebration, or a grand family reunion, Pork Hamonado Roll stands out as a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. The harmonious blend of sweetness from the pineapple and the savory depth of marinated pork creates an irresistible combination that is both comforting and celebratory.

But beyond its delectable taste, Pork Hamonado Roll is a dish steeped in tradition and nostalgia. For many, including myself, it evokes cherished memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. It’s a dish that tells a story, not just of culinary excellence, but of love, family, and the joy of coming together to share a meal.

Recipe Video:

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Every January 1st, my great-grandmother's house would come alive with the joyous hustle and bustle of our grand reunion. Among the many dishes that adorned the table, Pork Hamonado Roll held a special place in my heart. Two days before the big event, my great-grandmother and her daughters would be busy in the kitchen, preparing this beloved dish. The harmonious bonding, laughter, and heartfelt conversations that filled the kitchen during these times are memories I cherish dearly. The aroma of the marinated pork wafting through the air, mingling with the sounds of happy chatter, is a sensory memory that instantly transports me back to those joyful gatherings.

My great-grandmother's kitchen was the heart of our family’s celebrations. I remember the clatter of pots and pans, the rhythmic chopping of vegetables, and the sizzle of meat hitting the hot pan. It was a symphony of sounds that signaled the beginning of our festive preparations. The kitchen was always filled with an air of excitement and anticipation, as everyone took part in the preparation of our feast. My great-grandmother, with her wisdom and culinary expertise, would oversee everything, ensuring that each dish was prepared to perfection.

One of my fondest memories is the process of marinating the pork for the Hamonado Roll. The sight of the pork slices soaking in a mixture of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce was always fascinating to me. The sweet and tangy aroma would fill the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. As the meat marinated overnight, my great-grandmother would share stories of her own childhood, of how she learned to cook from her mother, and how these recipes had been passed down through generations. It was a time of bonding, of connecting with our roots, and of understanding the importance of preserving our culinary heritage.

The day of the reunion was always a whirlwind of activity. My great-grandmother and her daughters would wake up early to start cooking. The pork, now beautifully marinated, would be pan-fried until golden brown and then simmered with pineapple chunks until it was melt-in-your-mouth tender. The entire house would be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of the Pork Hamonado Roll, mingling with the scent of other delicious dishes being prepared. It was a sensory delight that added to the excitement of the day.

As family members arrived, the house would be filled with laughter, hugs, and the joyful noise of reunion. The dining table, laden with an array of dishes, would take center stage. But it was the Pork Hamonado Roll that everyone eagerly anticipated. The sight of the beautifully rolled pork, glistening with its sweet and savory sauce, was a feast for the eyes. As we sat down to eat, the flavors of the Pork Hamonado Roll would transport us to a place of comfort and happiness, a reminder of the love and care that went into preparing each meal.

These memories are etched in my heart, and every time I prepare Pork Hamonado Roll, I am reminded of those joyful times spent with family. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a connection to my heritage, a tribute to my great-grandmother, and a symbol of the love and togetherness that defines our family celebrations.

The Essence of Hamonado

Hamonado, derived from the Spanish word "jamonado," is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. Traditionally, this dish features meat marinated and cooked in a sweet pineapple sauce, making it a popular choice during Christmas and other festive celebrations, especially in regions where pineapples are commonly grown.

The beauty of Pork Hamonado Roll lies in its simplicity and versatility. Typically, fatty cuts of pork are marinated overnight in a sweet sauce made with pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and an array of spices. The marinating process allows the meat to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. Once marinated, the meat is pan-fried until browned, then simmered in stock with pineapple chunks until it reaches melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The dish is often served with a generous helping of white rice, allowing the savory-sweet sauce to be fully appreciated.

Variations and Personal Touches

One of the joys of Pork Hamonado Roll is the opportunity to make it your own. While the traditional method involves marinating the meat, some variations skip this step and slow-cook the pork until it becomes incredibly tender. This method is particularly useful for tougher cuts of meat like pata (ham hock) or beef sirloin.

Additionally, family recipes often incorporate unique ingredients that add a personal touch to the dish. Calamansi juice, carrots, raisins, pickles, longganisa, and hotdogs are just a few of the additions that can enhance the flavor and texture of the hamonado. Some variants are cooked afritada-style, using tomato sauce or banana ketchup to create a slightly different yet equally delicious dish.

A Timeless Tradition

Pork Hamonado Roll is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of togetherness and celebration. Whether it's Christmas, New Year's Day, or any special occasion, this dish brings families together, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds. Its rich flavors and comforting presence on the table make it a timeless tradition that continues to be cherished across generations.

As I reflect on my childhood memories and the joy that Pork Hamonado Roll brought to our family reunions, I am reminded of the importance of preserving and sharing these culinary traditions. Through each dish we prepare and each meal we share, we keep the spirit of our heritage alive, passing it down to future generations to enjoy and appreciate.

So, as the holiday season approaches, I invite you to try making Pork Hamonado Roll. Embrace the process, savor the flavors, and create your own cherished memories with this beloved Filipino dish.

Pork Hamonado Roll Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Pork Hamonado Roll is a delightful Filipino dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This recipe uses tender pork marinated in pineapple juice and brown sugar, filled with delicious ingredients, and then cooked to perfection. Here’s how you can make this dish at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 kilo pork chop, sliced thin like tapa (tenderloin can also be used)
• 2 tbsp. sea salt
• 1 tsp. ground pepper
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp. soy sauce
• 2 pcs. frankfurter (Filipinos usually use red-colored hotdogs)
• 2 pcs. whole pickled cucumber, cut into 2 strips
• 1 medium carrot, cut into strips (½ inch thick)
• 2 pcs. cheddar cheese, cut into strips (½ inch thick)
• 10 pcs. quail eggs (optional)
• Kitchen twine

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

• In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, sea salt, and ground pepper. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
• Add the thinly sliced pork to the bowl, ensuring each slice is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, giving it that delicious sweet and savory taste.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• While the pork is marinating, prepare the filling ingredients. Cut the frankfurters, pickled cucumber, carrot, and cheddar cheese into strips. If using quail eggs, hard-boil and peel them.

3. Assemble the Pork Rolls:

• Lay each marinated pork slice flat on a clean surface. Place a strip of frankfurter, pickled cucumber, carrot, and cheddar cheese on one end of the pork slice. If using quail eggs, add one egg to the filling.
• Carefully roll the pork slice, enclosing the filling inside. Secure the roll with kitchen twine to ensure it holds together during cooking. Repeat this process with the remaining pork slices and filling ingredients.

4. Cook the Pork Hamonado Rolls:

• In a large pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork rolls, seam side down. Sear the rolls until they are golden brown on all sides. This helps to lock in the flavors and gives the pork a nice caramelized crust.
• After searing, pour any remaining marinade into the pan. Add enough water to cover the rolls about halfway. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the rolls simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and the liquid has reduced to a thick sauce.

5. Serve:

• Remove the kitchen twine from the pork rolls. Arrange the rolls on a serving platter and spoon the sauce over the top. Serve hot with a side of steamed white rice, allowing the delicious flavors of the Pork Hamonado Roll to shine.

Enjoy this dish during special occasions, just like how it has been enjoyed in many Filipino households. The sweet and savory combination, along with the delightful fillings, makes Pork Hamonado Roll a truly unforgettable culinary experience.