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Spicy Cajun Tasso Ham
Dive into the bold and vibrant world of Cajun cuisine with this Spicy Cajun Tasso Ham. This dish embodies the heart and soul of Louisiana cooking, featuring a blend of aromatic spices and slow-smoked pork shoulder that promises to elevate your culinary creations. Tasso ham is traditionally used to impart a rich, spicy flavor to gumbos, jambalayas, and various Southern favorites. Its origins trace back to the Cajun families who sought to preserve pork while infusing it with their signature spice blends, creating a tantalizing ingredient that brings the essence of the bayou straight to your kitchen. Prepare to enchant your taste buds with each savory bite!
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder
- 4 pounds, cut into cubes
- Brown sugar
- 1/4 cup
- Paprika
- 2 tablespoons
- Cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon (adjust for spice preference)
- Garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon
- Onion powder
- 1 tablespoon
- Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon
- White pepper
- 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- 2 teaspoons
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, white pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and brown sugar to create a flavorful spice rub.
- Generously coat the pork shoulder cubes with the spice rub, ensuring an even distribution for maximum flavor.
- Transfer the seasoned pork cubes into a large resealable plastic bag, seal it tightly, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours (up to 48 hours) to allow the spices to infuse the meat.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- After marinating, remove the pork cubes from the bag and gently pat them dry with paper towels to ensure proper smoking.
- Place the pork cubes on the smoker rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking. Smoke for approximately 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the smoked pork cubes from the smoker and allow them to cool completely.
- After cooling, slice the smoked pork into thin strips or dice into small pieces for use in your favorite recipes.
Tips
- For an even spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper in the spice rub.
- If you don't have a smoker, you can roast the pork in an oven at 225°F, although the smoky flavor will be less pronounced.
- Tasso ham can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, soups, and salads, adding depth and a spicy kick.
Dietary Information
Servings: 8 Dish Type: Main Ingredient Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 3 hours Calories: 250 Fat: 18g Carbs: 6g Protein: 20g Sodium: 600mg Sugar: 1g
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