Paksiw na Pata with Pineapple

Ingredients for Paksiw na Pata with Pineapple

• 3 lb pork or ham hock (pata), sliced crosswise
• 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks
• 2 tsp garlic, minced
• 8 cups water
• 3 tbsp white vinegar
• 4 tbsp brown sugar or panutsa
• 1 pack (1 oz) dried banana blossoms, washed and soaked in water
• 4 to 6 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp whole peppercorns
• 1 beef cube, optional
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt, to taste

How to cook Paksiw na Pata with Pineapple

1. 1.Bring 6 cups water to a boil, add pata, and boil for 30 minutes. Drain and set the pork aside.
2. 2.Heat oil in a clean pot and sauté garlic until light brown.
3. 3.Add pork, soy sauce, pineapple chunks with juice, and remaining 2 cups water; bring to a boil.
4. 4.Add bay leaves, peppercorns, and vinegar; boil, then cook for 15 minutes.
5. 5.Stir in beef cube, if using, and brown sugar or panutsa. Add banana blossoms and simmer until pork is tender.
6. 6.Season with salt and serve. Add water if needed while tenderizing the pork.