Oven-baked pork with sautéed vegetables

Oven-baked pork leg with sautéed vegetables: a savory and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

If you're looking for a simple yet spectacular recipe that will impress family and friends, this oven-baked pork leg with sautéed vegetables is the perfect choice. The juicy meat, enticing flavors, and crunchy vegetables harmoniously combine to create a delicious dish. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a festive meal, this dish will surely be the star of the table.

The history of oven-baked pork leg is closely linked to the culinary traditions of many cultures, where pork has always been a valued ingredient. This simple yet refined recipe will not only bring you delicious taste but also essential nutrients.

Ingredients for pork leg:
- 500 g pork leg (choose a piece with a bit of fat for juicier meat)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably with seeds, for added texture)
- 1 teaspoon powdered rosemary (or fresh if available)
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (for frying and brushing)
- 5 cloves of garlic (peeled)
- 100 ml sparkling wine (for flavor and tenderizing the meat)
- Slices of smoked bacon (optional, but recommended for an intense flavor)
- 50 g butter (to add creaminess)

For the garnish:
- 200 g frozen Mexican vegetables (a vibrant mix of colors and textures)
- 100 g frozen peas (for sweetness)
- 100 g frozen green beans (for crunch)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes (halved for a fresh taste)

Step by step - Preparing the pork leg:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork leg under cold running water, then pat it dry with a paper towel. It is important for the meat to be dry to achieve a beautiful crust.

2. Marinating: In a small bowl, combine the mustard, rosemary, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Rub the pork leg with this mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let the meat marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Searing the meat: In a deep skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and sear the pork leg on all sides until golden and crispy. This step is essential to retain the juiciness of the meat.

4. Tying the meat: To maintain the uniform shape of the leg, tie it with kitchen twine. You can also add a few slices of smoked bacon between the meat and the twine to intensify the flavor.

5. Preparing for the oven: In a baking dish, place the tied pork leg and add the peeled garlic cloves. Wrap the meat tightly in aluminum foil to keep it moist during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and bake the leg for one hour. This is when the meat will tenderize.

7. Adding wine and butter: After one hour, remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. Add the diced butter and sparkling wine. These ingredients will enrich the flavor and make the meat even juicier. Return the dish to the oven for another 30-40 minutes, turning the meat occasionally for even browning.

8. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is baking, prepare the garnish. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil and add a few garlic cloves (if you want more flavor). Add the frozen vegetables and halved cherry tomatoes. Complete with the juices left from the roast (strained beforehand) and a splash of water. Allow the vegetables to cook for a few minutes until tender but still crunchy.

9. Serving: When the pork leg is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it and place the slices on a platter. Serve alongside the sautéed vegetables and enjoy the harmonious flavors.

Serving suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a blonde beer. You can also add a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors of the meat.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can substitute the pork leg with chicken or beef, but the baking time will vary.
2. How can I make the meat even more flavorful? You can add fresh herbs like thyme or sage to the marinade.
3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely! Just make sure to cook them long enough to be tender.

Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe offers an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals due to the pork and vegetables. One serving (approximately 150 g of meat and 150 g of vegetables) contains about 450 calories, making it a hearty and nutritious dish.

Vegetarian option: If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the pork leg with marinated tofu or tempeh and follow the same preparation steps. The flavors and technique remain just as delicious.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try it and share it with your loved ones! Every meal deserves to be a special occasion, and with this oven-baked pork leg and sautéed vegetables, you'll have one more reason to enjoy every moment spent around the table. Buon appetito!