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Pork Hamonado Roll is a delightful Filipino dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory goodness of pork. This pork roll filled with hotdog, pickles, carrots and pineapple simmered to perfection is sure to leave you craving for more.

With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, it’s a good idea to plan your Noche Buena menu early. Aside from Christmas ham or chicken hamonado, this pork hamonado roll is a great addition to your celebration or pork recipes.

If you’re attending or hosting a party, Pork Hamonado Rolls can be a fantastic addition to the spread. They add a touch of elegance to festive feasts and the combination of sweet and savory flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser.

What is Hamonado Roll?

Hamonado Roll, is like morcon which is a popular Filipino dish that showcases the fusion of Spanish and Filipino culinary influences. It is essentially a sweet and savory pork roll made from thin slices of pork that is marinated, rolled, and then simmered in a flavorful sauce. The result is a delectable treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings, holiday season, to special celebrations.

History of Hamonado Roll

To truly appreciate the Hamonado Roll, it’s essential to understand its historical roots. The word “Hamonado” from the Spanish word “jamón,” which means ham, suggests that the dish has Spanish origins. Possibly introduced during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. Over time, Filipinos adapted and transformed it into a unique and flavorful dish that has become a cherished Filipino food.

Notes On Some Ingredients

Pork: Thinly sliced pork, typically from the butt, loin or shoulder, serves as the main protein in Hamonado Roll.
Marinade: The pork is marinated in a sweet and tangy mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, granulated or brown sugar, and salt. This marinade infuses the meat with its signature sweet and savory flavor.
Vegetables: Carrot strips, bell peppers, and onions are commonly used to add color, crunch, and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Additional Fillings: Hotdogs, bacon, cheese, sweet pickles, and salted eggs are some of the options that can be included in the filling along with vegetables.
Sauce: The sauce is made from the leftover marinade, pepper then thickened with cornstarch, and simmered until it reaches a luscious consistency. This sauce is drizzled over the sweet pork roll before serving.

meat being sliced on top of chopping board

Cooking Tips

Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Select thinly sliced pork loin or pork shoulder. These cuts are tender and work well for Hamonado Rolls. Ask your local butcher to cut it for you thinly if needed.
Marinate Adequately: Marinating the meat is key to infusing it with flavor. Allow the pork (or your chosen protein) to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination, even overnight in the refrigerator, can result in even more flavorful rolls.
Squeeze Out Excess Marinade: Make sure to drain or squeeze out any excess marinade from the pork. This prevents the oil splatter during searing or cooking the rolls.
Use Fresh and Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and onions to create a flavorful filling. High-quality soy sauce, pineapple juice, and sugar are essential for the marinade.
Don’t Overstuff the Wrappers: Overloading can lead to difficulty in rolling and potential tearing of the meat. Use a moderate amount of filling for each roll.
Seal the Rolls Securely: To prevent the rolls from opening during cooking, tie the rolls with kitchen twine.
Fry in Hot Oil: When frying the hamonado rolls, make sure the oil is hot but not smoking. This helps achieve a golden brown exterior. Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Simmer Gently: When simmering the rolls in the sauce, do so gently over medium-low heat. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the meat cooks through without drying out.

How to Serve and Store

Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch of presentation and flavor, garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, preserved cherries or a drizzle of additional sauce before serving.
Serve Hot: Hamonado Rolls are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve them immediately with the thickened sauce poured over the top.
Storing: Place the rolls with sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

meat with vegetables and sauce garnish with fruits

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! While pork is the traditional choice, you can use chicken. As for vegetables, feel free to mix and match based on your preferences.

Enjoy as an appetizer or a main course, depending on the portion size and the context of the meal. It’s a versatile dish that can fit into various dining situations.

The dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed rice, garlic fried rice, or a simple vegetable salad. The balance of flavors in the roll complements these side dishes nicely.

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