Grilled pork is a classic dish in the villages of southern Benin, where the meat is cooked over a wood fire. The recipe relies on a tamarind marinade, which imparts a slightly tangy note typical of the region. Chili peppers and garlic are added, giving the meat a wonderful flavor. Grilling creates a much-appreciated golden crust, but you can also cook it in a very hot pan. The pieces will remain tender thanks to the marinade. This dish is often served with gari (cassava semolina). It also pairs well with local tomato sauces. This dish can easily be prepared at home while staying true to tradition, although the cooking and taste will differ slightly when cooked in a pan. However, the recipe will naturally be gluten-free.

Grilled pork, just like in Benin

Benign

Print the recipe

Pin Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time 30 minutes Rest time: 2 hours Total time 2 hours 45 minutes

Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 6 Special regime:

Naturally gluten-free

Cooking method: Traditional

Ingredients

Portions

• 1 kg of pork loin or belly cut into pieces
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 small chili pepper (or 1/2 tsp chili powder)
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste (or 2 tbsp tamarind juice)
• 1 onion
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tsp of pepper
• 1 tsp of paprika
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• Basil leaves

Preparation

1. Crush the garlic, chili and onion (you can also use chili powder).
2. Add the tamarind, salt, pepper, paprika and oil. Mix well.
   
3. Coat the pieces of pork with this marinade.
   
4. Add a few basil leaves.
5. Let it rest for at least 2 hours in a cool place.
6. Heat up a barbecue or grill pan.
7. Sear the pork to form a golden crust.
8. Continue cooking over medium heat to keep the meat tender.
9. Turn the pieces over regularly.
10. Serve with gari (cassava semolina) or rice.
    

Keywords: Beninese grilled pork, gluten-free Beninese recipe, gluten-free African cuisine, Beninese barbecue, traditional grilled pork, Beninese tamarind pork, African pork recipe, gluten-free Beninese dish

Rate this recipe