Roast pork

Oven-Roasted Pork with Garlic Sauce - A Rustic Delicacy for Special Moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes the simplest dishes bring us the greatest joys. Oven-roasted pork with garlic sauce is a classic recipe that combines traditional flavors with an easy-to-follow cooking technique. This roast will not only fill your home with inviting aromas but will also gather the family around the table, creating unforgettable moments.

Recipe Story

Pork roast is a dish that has crossed generations, being a staple choice in many culinary cultures. Over time, it has evolved, but the essence remains the same: a flavorful piece of meat, slow-cooked to retain its juiciness and flavors. Whether served with simple sides or elaborate dishes, this main course remains a symbol of hospitality.

Ingredients

- 700 g pork (preferably shoulder or chop)
- 1 head of garlic (about 10 cloves)
- 200 ml tomato puree (you can also use tomato paste)
- 30 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (or smoked for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 100 ml water (for the sauce)

Cooking Technique

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork into thick slices about 2 cm thick. This thickness will allow the meat to cook evenly and remain juicy. Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. It is important to score the edges of the slice to prevent it from curling during cooking. Make a few cross cuts on each edge, so you have a nicely browned roast.

2. Preparing the garlic sauce: Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with a garlic press or fork. Add a pinch of salt and begin to mash the garlic with the salt, gradually adding the oil, as you would when making mayonnaise. This technique will help emulsify the oil with the garlic, creating a flavorful paste. Once you have a smooth paste, add the tomato puree, pepper, paprika, and water. Mix well so that all the ingredients combine perfectly.

3. Assembling: In a baking dish, place the slices of meat. Pour the garlic sauce over the meat, ensuring that each piece is well coated. It is important that there is enough sauce to cover the meat, which will help keep it juicy during cooking.

4. Cooking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the meat to cook slowly. Preheat the oven to 220°C and place the dish inside. Let the roast cook for 1 hour. Halfway through, you can check if the sauce has reduced, and if necessary, add a little water to prevent the meat from drying out.

5. Finishing: After an hour, remove the aluminum foil and let the roast cook in the oven for another 10-15 minutes until it is beautifully browned on the surface. This step will give the roast a delicious crust.

Serving

Serving the pork roast with garlic sauce can be a moment of true culinary magic. I recommend pairing it with creamy polenta, which will soak up the delicious sauce, or with a flavorful mashed potato. A fresh cabbage salad or a green salad with cherry tomatoes will add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for pork with a moderate fat content to achieve a juicy roast. The chop is an excellent choice, but the shoulder can be just as delicious.
- Garlic: If you are a fan of intense garlic flavor, you can add more cloves to the sauce or lightly brown them before crushing. This will bring a more complex flavor.
- Variations: You can experiment with spices by adding oregano, rosemary, or thyme to customize the recipe according to your preferences. A splash of white wine in the sauce can add depth to the flavor.
- Alternative sides: Instead of polenta, you can serve the roast with roasted potatoes or sautéed vegetables for a lighter meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals such as zinc and iron. Garlic, besides its unique flavor, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat?: Of course! You can adapt the recipe for chicken or beef. Cooking time will vary, so make sure to check the meat to avoid drying it out.
- How can I store the roast?: Leftover roast can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or use it in delicious sandwiches.

Conclusion

Oven-roasted pork with garlic sauce is not just a dish, but an invitation to family dining and an opportunity to enjoy simple yet flavorful moments. Try this recipe and let the flavors take you on a culinary journey filled with memories and joys. Enjoy your meal!