HOW TO MAKE AFELIA
Afelia is a traditional Cypriot dish of small pieces of fried pork meat cooked in wine and coriander. This popular dish is easy to prepare and involves marinating the meat in a flavourful mixture of aromatic herbs, spices, olive oil, and wine. This traditional Cypriot dish maintains a special place in the Cypriot culinary repertoire. This dish is often enjoyed at most family gatherings and during celebrations. Several variations of this dish have been passed down through generations, but all versions contain the same basic ingredients and have the same method of preparation. This meal is usually accompanied by bulgur pilaf or potatoes and a Cyprus salad.
Ingredients:
2 kilos of diced pork
1/4 cup olive oil
4 finely chopped garlic cloves
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of sea salt
2 teaspoons of ground coriander
1/4 cup of whole coriander seeds
1 cup of dry red wine
2 whole bay leaves
1 cup of water
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Place the pork pieces, olive oil, chopped garlic, black pepper, salt, ground coriander, coriander seeds, red wine, and bay leaves into a mixing bowl, mixing well and ensuring that the meat is evenly coated with the mixture.
Cover and marinade and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Heat a large pot over medium heat and then add the marinade mixture.
Sear the meat until it starts to brown and then lower the heat to a gentle simmer adding water as needed to prevent sticking and to maintain moisture.
Cover the pot and cook for about 1.5 hours or until the pork is tender, stirring occasionally and adding water when necessary.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve on a bed of rice, or with pita or crusty bread.
