1lbsporco preto loin, pork chop, or secreto, cut into 1 inch cubes, see notes for alternatives to porco preto
2lbscockles or amêijoa branca, little neck clams work as well (24 clams = 2 lbs)
2tbspred bell pepper paste or puree
1tbsptomato paste
2bay leaf
4garlic cloves, minced
½cupcilantro - chopped
½cuppickled vegetables, giardiniera
1cupdry white wine, Vinho verde, alvarinho, or sauvignon blanc
extra virgin olive oil, as needed
sunflower or canola oil, used for the potatoes
1red bell pepper, small dice - this is optional or can replace Red bell pepper paste if you do not have this
Instructions
Marinating the Pork
The night before or in the morning of the day of cooking cut up the pork, garlic, and red bell pepper if using.
In a glass or non-reactive plastic container combine the wine, garlic, paprika, pepper paste, tomato paste, 1-2 tbsp olive oil, bay leaf, salt and white peppercorns. Stir to combine, then add the pork cubes.
Cover and let marinate in the fridge.
Time to cook! Rinse the clams and place in a cold, salted bowl of water for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking the potatoes
Cut the potatoes into 1/2 inch cubes (~2cm).
Place in a bowl and toss with the sunflower or canola oil until well coated.
Heat the over to 435F or 225C using a convection roast setting. The airflow will help us get more crispy potatoes. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer or oil fryer. If using these methods use a similar cooking time as french fries.
Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This is for easier clean up. If you do not have these supplies just use the baking sheet.
Spread the potatoes out on the baking sheet.
Once the oven is at temperature place the potatoes in the oven and bake for 40 minutes.
At 40 minutes check the potatoes for doneness and crispiness. They may need to be tossed and cooked longer. If they are not as crispy as desired try using the broiler for 5 or 10 minutes at least 6 inches away from the potatoes. We are looking for a nice light brown crust, with a soft interior.
Once complete set aside until the pork and clams are finished.
Cooking the pork and clams
While the potatoes cook prepare the pork and clams.
Use a slotted spoon and remove the pork from the marinade and place on a plate or bowl.
Heat a medium sized pot over medium high heat.
Once hot add the pork cubes and brown the sides. 3-4 minutes on each side. You may want to do this in batches so as to not overcrowd the pot.
Once all of the pork has been browned add the marinade and bring to a simmer.
Simmer the meat for 25 minutes.
Afterwards add the cockles or clams and cover with a lid. Increase the heat for a light boil. Cover with a lid and cook until the clams open, 5-10 minutes.
Once the clams are done (open) turn off the heat.
Prepping the plate
In a shallow bowl, start by placing a layer of potatoes. Then scoop meat, clams, and broth from the pot into the bowl. Top with the chopped cilantro and pickled vegetables.
Notes
We prefer to roast the potatoes in the oven versus air frying or oil frying. Roasting in the oven is less messy, we can manage to fit more potatoes in the oven, and do not have to fry in batches. The potatoes in this recipe can be fried if preferred and that method may result in a better potato. Try it both ways and see how it turns out for you!
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