Q&A with Glenys Woollard - Food

ARE PORK SHOULDER CHOPS SUITABLE FOR ROASTING?

Yes, especially if they are slow roasted for about 90 minutes in a covered dish (oven temperature about 170C). Dust the chops with seasoned flour first, and snip the edges of the rind to stop the chops from curling as they bake. And if you line the dish with baking paper it will save on washing up. Moist cooking methods (eg casserole) also work well with shoulder chops, or you could top them with apple slices and bake in greased foil.

AN ASIAN RECIPE CALLS FOR JINTAN - WHAT IS THIS?

Jintan is a Malaysian term for either fennel (jintan manis), cumin (jintan putih) or aniseed (jintan manis). Malay, Chinese and Indian are the three main cuisines of Malaysia, with influences from Thailand and many other cultures. Other Malaysian ingredients you may come across include blachan (pronounced blah-chan) or shrimp paste; kepak manis, a sweet soya sauce; and rempah, a spice paste or mix similar to an Indian masala. Note that Indian grocery stores often stock Malaysian ingredients.

If you have a food question email Glenys at glenyswoollard@clear.net.nz