Oven-Baked Pork Knuckles

Delicious Recipe: Oven-Baked Pork Trotters

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes the best comfort food is the one that connects us to traditions and cherished memories. Oven-baked pork trotters are a rustic yet extremely flavorful dish, with a soft and juicy texture, perfect for family meals or special occasions. This simple and delicious recipe reminds us of traditional meals, where each ingredient has a story. Let's embark together on the preparation of this dish that will delight your senses!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 7 pork trotters
- 2 kg of onions
- 1 can of tomatoes (approximately 400 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil (2-3 tablespoons)
- Spices of your choice (pepper, thyme, paprika, etc.)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boiling the pork trotters:
Start by washing the pork trotters well under a stream of cold water. Then, place them in a large pot, add water and a little salt. Bring the water to a boil and then cover the pot. Let the pork trotters boil for 30 minutes in the pressure cooker, to make them tender and easy to handle. This step is essential, as the meat will be much softer and more flavorful after baking.

2. Preparing the onion and tomato sauce:
Meanwhile, peel the onions and slice them thinly. In a large skillet, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. The salt will help the onions soften faster. Sauté the onions for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.

Once the onions are ready, add the canned tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, incorporate the tomato paste, mixing well to obtain a smooth sauce. This sauce will give a rich and deep flavor to the final dish.

3. Assembling the dish:
Once the pork trotters are boiled, remove them from the pot and place them in a baking dish. Cover them with the onion and tomato sauce, making sure it is evenly distributed over the meat. Season with your favorite spices (pepper, thyme, sweet or hot paprika, etc.) to taste.

4. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish with the pork trotters in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat becomes golden and crispy on the outside. Check occasionally to avoid drying out the dish; if necessary, you can add a little water or broth to the dish.

5. Serving:
Once the pork trotters are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve them hot, alongside sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or fresh salad. A bottle of red wine would perfectly complement this meal.

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the tomato sauce for an extra splash of color and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. For example, adding garlic or bay leaves can enhance the aroma.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can other parts of the pig be used? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork from other parts, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I make the pork trotters crispier? After removing them from the oven, you can place them under a grill for a few minutes to crust them.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork trotters are an excellent source of protein and collagen, providing benefits for joint and skin health. Additionally, onions and tomatoes offer antioxidants and essential vitamins.

This oven-baked pork trotters recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring you closer to culinary traditions that have remained unchanged over time. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or a special occasion, it is a dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Happy cooking!