Seasoned pork roll

Spiced Pork Roll

If you are looking for a recipe for a pork roll that impresses with both taste and vibrant aromas, you have come to the right place. This spiced pork roll is not only a delicious dish but also an excellent choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With a history spanning years, meat rolls are a symbol of care and delightful family meals. So, let's get to work!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 24 hours
Baking time: 2 – 2.5 hours
Total: 2 days (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients you need:

- 0.6 kg pork tenderloin (choose a piece with a moderate amount of fat for better flavor)
- 3 cloves of garlic (preferably fresh for an intense taste)
- 1 small piece of ginger (about 30 g, peeled and grated)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh for a more vibrant flavor)
- 1 bay leaf (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika (for a spicy note, but you can omit it if you prefer)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Oil (to grease the baking tray)
- 1 glass of water (or alternatively, wine or dark beer, to add extra flavor)

Preparing the spiced pork roll:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by trimming excess fat from the pork tenderloin. Wash the meat well under cold water and pat it dry with a kitchen towel. This step is essential for achieving a juicy roll without a greasy appearance.

2. Salting and seasoning: Now, salt and pepper the meat on all sides. Cover the tenderloin with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will help the spices to absorb.

3. Preparing the spices: In a small bowl, grate the 3 cloves of garlic and the ginger. Add the paprika, thyme, crushed bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a smooth paste. This mixture will give the meat a rich flavor.

4. Seasoning the meat: Remove the meat from the refrigerator and rub the tenderloin well with the mixture obtained. Make sure all sides are evenly covered. Now, carefully roll the tenderloin to form a tight roll.

5. Cooling: Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, turning every bite into an unforgettable experience.

6. Preparing for baking: The next day, take the roll out of the refrigerator. Tie it with kitchen twine to maintain its shape during baking. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

7. Baking: Place the roll in a baking dish, brush it with a little oil, and pour the glass of water (or wine/beer) around it. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius, then reduce the temperature to 150 degrees Celsius for 90-120 minutes.

8. Finishing: In the last 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil to allow the roll to brown beautifully. Once it is ready, turn off the heat and leave the oven door open to cool gradually. I recommend leaving it there until morning to intensify the flavors.

9. Serving: The next day, remove the twine and slice the roll. You can serve it with mustard or other favorite sauces. It is delicious warm but also cold, making it a perfect choice for a hearty breakfast or an appetizer.

Useful tips:

- Vegetarian option: If you are vegetarian, you can replace the meat with a combination of vegetables and tofu or seitan, seasoning them just like the pork remnants.
- Enhancing flavor: Add slices of carrot or other vegetables between the layers of meat before rolling for added color and nutrients.
- Frequently asked questions:
- How can I store the roll? The roll can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can freeze it, but make sure it is well wrapped.
- What drinks pair well? A dark beer or a dry red wine pairs excellently with this roll, enhancing the intense flavors of the meat.

Nutritional benefits:

Homemade pork roll is a healthy choice as you know exactly what ingredients you are using. Pork meat contains valuable proteins, B vitamins, and essential minerals, while adding ginger and garlic provides extra antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

This spiced pork roll is not only a traditional dish but also an opportunity to gather family around the table, enjoying a meal full of flavor and warmth. So, do not hesitate to personalize your recipe and bring a touch of your personality to every bite!