Yokkaichi Tonteki (豚テキ)

Ingredients:

• 400g thick-cut pork loin (high-quality pork is recommended)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lard (or vegetable oil as an alternative)
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Sliced cabbage (for garnish)
• Rice (for serving)

Preparation:

1. Prepare the sauce:
   In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mirin, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.

2. Prepare the pork:
   Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the pork loin with black pepper. Once the pan is hot, add the lard (or oil) and place the pork slices into the pan. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Cooking the garlic:
   In the same pan, once the pork is nearly done, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, making sure the garlic becomes fragrant but does not burn.

4. Make the tonteki sauce:
   Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the pork and garlic in the pan. Allow the sauce to bubble and reduce slightly, coating the pork well.

5. Assemble the dish:
   Serve the tonteki on a plate with a side of sliced cabbage. The pork should be shiny from the sauce and served hot.

6. Optional:
   For an extra boost of flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds over the top before serving.

Serving Suggestion:

• Serve with a bowl of steamed rice to complement the richness of the pork and sauce.
• A refreshing green salad or pickles can also be served on the side to balance the flavors.

Suggested Beverage:

• A cold beer or chilled sake would pair wonderfully with this hearty dish.