Stuffed pork tenderloin

Stuffed Pork Leg – A Delicious and Satisfying Recipe

Who doesn't love a well-cooked meal that brings family and friends together? Stuffed pork leg is one of those recipes that not only delights the taste buds but also creates unforgettable memories. This rich, flavorful, and savory recipe is perfect for both a special dinner and an everyday meal.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the stuffed pork leg:
- 2 kg boneless pork leg
- ½ kg minced meat (a mix of beef and pork)
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 parsley root, diced
- 1 head of garlic, minced
- 1 cup rice, washed and drained
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 bay leaves
- 150 ml olive oil
- 1 cup water
- Salt, pepper, sweet paprika
- Thyme and dried basil

Preparing the Pork Leg

1. Marinade preparation: In a small bowl, mix a little olive oil, thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. This will be a flavorful mix that will season the meat.

2. Creating pockets: Using a sharp knife, cut the pork leg on the sides to form pockets, leaving one end uncut. This will allow the filling to be easily inserted.

3. Seasoning the meat: Rub the pork leg with the prepared mix, both on the outside and inside the pockets. Cover the leg with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat well.

Preparing the Filling

4. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and a teaspoon of water. Add the onion, carrots, bell pepper, and parsley root. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables soften, adding a little salt and bay leaves for flavor.

5. Adding the minced meat: When the vegetables are almost done, add the minced meat to the skillet. Mix well and cook until the meat is slightly browned, stirring occasionally.

6. Including the rice: Add the washed and drained rice to the skillet and let it cook for a few more minutes, stirring to combine the flavors. It will absorb the juices from the vegetables and meat, becoming a delicious ingredient.

7. Seasoning and cooling: Turn off the heat, remove the bay leaves, and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil. Add the chopped parsley and let the filling cool.

Filling the Pork Leg

8. Fill the pockets: With the cooled filling, fill the pockets of the pork leg, being careful not to overfill them. Use silicone ties or string to securely tie the leg, ensuring the filling doesn’t spill during baking.

Baking the Stuffed Pork Leg

9. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. In a baking dish, add a little water and oil, then place the stuffed pork leg. Prick the leg in several places with the tip of a knife to allow steam to escape during baking.

10. Covering the dish: Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil (if the lid doesn’t fit). This will help retain moisture during baking.

11. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 40 minutes. Halfway through, turn the leg for even cooking.

12. Finishing: 10-15 minutes before removing the leg from the oven, uncover and brush the surface with ketchup. Continue baking until the meat becomes golden and crispy.

Serving

Serving the stuffed pork leg can be a special moment. I recommend slicing it and serving it alongside a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. A fresh summer salad would perfectly complement the meal. Additionally, a bottle of red wine or homemade tomato juice can pair wonderfully with this dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork leg is an excellent source of protein and contains essential vitamins such as B12, which helps maintain the health of the nervous system. The rice and vegetables in the filling provide fiber and nutrients, making this recipe a balanced option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with chicken or turkey for a leaner version.

2. How can I store leftovers?
The stuffed pork leg keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its flavor.

3. Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! The stuffed pork leg is an impressive dish that will surely impress guests at any festive meal.

Variations

To add extra flavor, you can experiment with different fillings, such as sautéed mushrooms, chopped nuts, or even feta cheese. Each variation will bring a unique touch to your dish.

Final Note

Stuffed pork leg is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Cooking is an art form, and every meal you prepare is an opportunity to create memories. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every step of this delicious process!