Oven-baked pork neck

Oven-Baked Pork Neck: A Flavorful Delicacy

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

The Story Behind the Recipe

Oven-baked pork neck is a special recipe, full of flavor and tradition, cherished by generations. This juicy roast is often associated with festive meals but can be enjoyed at any time of the year. The combination of pork, aromatic spices, and pickled cabbage leaves offers a contrast of textures and flavors, transforming a simple ingredient into a true delicacy. Whether you serve this dish as an appetizer or as a main course, it’s impossible not to fall in love with its taste.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg pork neck (choose a piece with a bit of fat for a richer flavor)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Dried thyme (1-2 tablespoons, depending on preference)
- Very thin slices of ham (approximately 150 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of mustard (preferably Dijon mustard for a more intense flavor)
- 6-8 pickled cabbage leaves (make sure they are tender and flavorful)

Helpful Tips About Ingredients

When choosing pork neck, look for a piece that has a layer of fat, as this will help keep the meat juicy during baking. You can also use fresh cabbage leaves, but pickling adds an extra layer of flavor and acidity that perfectly complements the meat. Mustard not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Meat
Start by cleaning the pork neck of any skin or tougher parts. Wash the meat under cold running water and dry it with a paper towel. Then, sprinkle freshly ground pepper and thyme over the entire surface of the meat, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.

2. Wrapping with Ham
Lay the very thin slices of ham over the pork neck, making sure to cover the entire surface. This layer of ham will add extra flavor and help maintain the juiciness of the meat.

3. Applying Mustard
The next step is to spread mustard on the meat. Use a kitchen brush or simply a spoon to apply the mustard over the entire surface of the meat. This will form a delicious crust during baking.

4. Wrapping with Cabbage Leaves
Cover the pork neck with the pickled cabbage leaves, making sure they are well placed and cover the meat completely. This step not only adds extra flavor but also helps retain moisture during baking.

5. Baking in the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pork neck in a baking dish and put it in the oven. Let it bake for about an hour, or until the cabbage leaves turn brown and crispy. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the meat; if it goes in easily, the roast is ready.

6. Cooling and Serving
After removing the pork neck from the oven, unwrap the cabbage leaves and let the meat cool slightly. You can serve it warm as a main course, alongside sides like mashed potatoes, summer salad, or grilled vegetables. It can also be enjoyed cold, sliced thinly, as an appetizer.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a personalized touch, you can add thin slices of cheese or black olives to the ham filling. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or garlic, to add extra flavor.

This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine or craft beer, and for a family meal, a fresh green salad will complete this feast.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork neck is a rich source of protein, vitamins (especially B12), and essential minerals such as zinc and iron. The fat in the meat, consumed in moderation, contributes to the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Pickled cabbage leaves add valuable probiotics, beneficial for digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use beef instead of pork?
Of course! Although the original recipe uses pork, you can experiment with beef, but the baking time may vary.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Keep the pork neck in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can last up to 3 days. You can later use it in sandwiches or salads.

3. What sides can I use?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh salad.

4. How can I make the recipe spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can add a bit of chili or hot paprika to the spice mix.

Conclusion

Oven-baked pork neck is an easy-to-make recipe, yet full of flavor, that can turn any meal into a celebration. By following these simple steps and adding a personal touch, you’ll manage to prepare a dish that will surely impress family and friends. So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe and enjoy the flavors it brings!