Oven-baked pork

Oven-Baked Pork Leg

On cool days, nothing compares to the aroma of a beautifully browned pork leg, slowly cooking in the oven. This oven-baked pork leg recipe is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful, turning an ordinary meal into a memorable feast. Here’s how you can prepare this delight step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

1 kg pork leg
5-6 garlic cloves
Salt, pepper
Oregano, marjoram, lemon balm (or other preferred herbs)
2 large onions
2 carrots
1 red bell pepper
Olive oil

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the pork leg under cold running water. Then, with a sharp knife, make several shallow cuts into the meat, being careful not to cut too deep. These cuts will allow the spices to penetrate better into the meat, providing an intense and savory flavor.

2. Seasoning:
In a bowl, mix finely chopped herbs - oregano, marjoram, and lemon balm - with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the quantities of these spices according to your taste, but be careful not to overdo it with the salt. Roll the pork leg in this mixture, ensuring it is well coated, then let it chill for 30 minutes to an hour. This resting time allows the flavors to infuse into the meat.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
While the meat is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Cut the onions in half, the carrots into pieces about 2 cm long, and the red bell pepper into slices. These vegetables will add both flavor and color to your dish.

4. Assembling:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking tray with a drizzle of olive oil and place the pork leg in the center. Arrange the chopped vegetables around the meat. They will develop a delicious flavor during baking and contribute to a savory sauce.

5. Adding the garlic:
Cut the garlic cloves in half and insert them into the cuts in the meat. The garlic will give a deep flavor and will also season the surrounding vegetables.

6. Baking:
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the vegetables, then place the tray in the oven. Bake the dish for about 50 minutes, turning the meat halfway through. This way, it will brown evenly and become juicy.

7. Serving:
Once the meat is cooked, remove the tray from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender. You can serve the pork leg alongside your favorite side dish, such as mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the meat: Choose a pork leg with a thin layer of fat for a juicy dish. The fat will melt during baking, adding flavor and tenderness.
- Aromatic herbs: You can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme to give your dish a personalized touch.
- Spicy version: If you like spicy dishes, add some chili flakes to the spice mix.
- Serving: This oven-baked pork leg pairs wonderfully with a light red wine or a craft beer.

Nutritional information:

This oven-baked pork leg recipe contains approximately 450 calories per serving, with a high protein content due to the pork. Additionally, the vegetables add fiber and essential vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for chicken or beef. The cooking time will vary, so make sure to check the doneness of the meat.

2. How can I reheat the pork leg?
You can reheat the slices of meat in the oven at a low temperature, covered with aluminum foil, to prevent them from drying out.

3. Is this recipe suitable for festive meals?
Definitely! The oven-baked pork leg is ideal for family lunches or holiday meals. Its rustic presentation and rich flavor will surely impress your guests.

This oven-baked pork leg recipe is not only a wonderful way to enjoy a delicious meal but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table with loved ones. Savor every bite and enjoy the flavors that intertwine in this simple yet characterful dish. Bon appétit!