Grilled pork belly with asparagus and roasted potatoes

Grilled pork belly with asparagus and baked potatoes – a delicious, simple recipe perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of succulent meat flavors, crunchy vegetables, and golden potatoes will transform any meal into a true celebration of tastes. Additionally, this recipe is an excellent opportunity to experiment with fresh ingredients and enjoy healthy dishes rich in nutrients.

Recipe details:
- Servings: 4
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Necessary ingredients:
- 600 g pork belly
- 800 g potatoes
- 100 g butter
- Cheese, to taste (optional)
- Spices: salt, dried oregano, dried thyme, to taste
- 500 g asparagus
- 1 tablespoon sunflower oil

A bit of history:
Pork is one of the most consumed meats worldwide, appreciated for its rich flavor and versatility in preparation. Belly, in particular, is a popular cut due to its juiciness and texture. Asparagus, on the other hand, is a precious vegetable often associated with festive meals due to its elegant appearance and nutritional benefits. By combining these ingredients, we achieve not only a delicious meal but also a healthy one, full of vitamins and minerals.

Preparing the recipe:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by washing the potatoes well. It's important to choose the best ones, preferably with thin skin, which will provide a more intense flavor. If you prefer potatoes with a finer texture, opt for new potatoes or red potatoes.
- After washing, slice them into rounds about 1 cm thick. It is essential not to slice them too thinly, or they risk drying out during baking.

2. Assembling the potatoes:
- Arrange the potato slices in a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleaning easier later.
- Add a small piece of butter between the rounds to enhance the flavor and ensure even baking.
- Sprinkle salt, thyme, and oregano over the potatoes. These spices will add an unmistakable taste and an inviting aroma.
- Finally, add grated cheese on top, if you choose to use it, for an extra creaminess.

3. Baking the potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the tray with potatoes in and let them bake for about 45 minutes, or until they become golden and crunchy. Don't forget to check on them occasionally and turn them for even baking.

4. Preparing the pork belly:
- Meanwhile, cut the pork belly into thick slices of about 2-3 cm. Season them with salt and let them absorb the flavors for a few minutes.
- Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the slices of belly and cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side until they are browned and juicy. It is ideal not to overheat them to keep the meat tender.

5. Preparing the asparagus:
- While the meat is cooking, wash the asparagus well. Snap each stalk where it feels softer; this will ensure you use only the delicious part of the vegetable.
- Sprinkle sunflower oil and salt over the asparagus, mixing well to coat evenly. Then, add the asparagus to the grill pan, allowing it to brown for 3-5 minutes until it becomes tender and slightly crunchy.

6. Serving the dish:
- Once all components are ready, arrange them nicely on plates: baked potatoes in the center, slices of pork belly alongside, and asparagus on the side. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different spices and herbs, such as rosemary or garlic, to give the dish a different flavor.
- If you like a sauce, a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill pairs perfectly with this dish.
- Make sure to let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juiciness.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace pork belly with another type of meat?
- Absolutely! You can use chicken or turkey, which can be prepared similarly.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the recipe?
- Carrots, zucchini, or even mushrooms are excellent and can be prepared in the same way.

3. How can I store baked potatoes for the next day?
- Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork belly provides quality protein, while asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, being high in potassium, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

This grilled pork belly recipe with asparagus and baked potatoes is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to enjoy beautiful moments with loved ones. With each bite, you'll taste the authentic flavor of fresh ingredients that harmoniously combine to create a memorable meal. Enjoy your meal!