Mumu is a traditional dish from Papua New Guinea, typically consisting of meat, vegetables, and seasonings that are cooked together in an underground oven. Here's a simplified gist for making mumu with pig:
Ingredients:
- Whole pig (or pork cuts)
- Root vegetables (like taro, yam, sweet potatoes)
- Leafy greens (like spinach or cabbage)
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, herbs)
- Banana leaves (for wrapping)
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Butchering: If using a whole pig, it should be dressed and cut into manageable pieces.
- Marinate: Season the meat with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs. Allow it to marinate for a few hours or overnight for better flavor.
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Prepare the Cooking Pit:
- Dig a pit in the ground and line it with hot stones or volcanic rocks. Heat the stones by burning a fire in the pit until they are red hot.
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Layering:
- Place large leaves (like banana leaves) at the bottom of the pit.
- Add a layer of root vegetables, then place the marinated pig on top. You can add more veggies and seasonings on top of the meat.
- Cover the mound with more banana leaves and then cover it all with soil.
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Cooking:
- Allow the mumu to cook for several hours (typically 4-8 hours), depending on the size of the pig and the amount of food being cooked.
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Serving:
- Carefully uncover the mumu, taking care to not burn yourself on the hot stones.
- Serve the cooked pig with the vegetables, and enjoy it as a communal meal.
Mumu is often a festive dish, enjoyed on special occasions and gatherings. It's known for its unique flavor and cooking method, creating tender, smoky, and delicious meat.