Pork belly on the pan

Oven-roasted pork belly is a dish that brings not only flavor to your table but also unforgettable moments with your loved ones. This simple and delicious recipe will transform a piece of tender meat into a feast of flavors, perfect for a family lunch or a special dinner. Additionally, the side of mashed potatoes and fresh pickles perfectly complements this dish, giving it a unique taste. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg pork belly
- 1 head of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or smoked, according to preference)
- 1 cup white wine (choose a quality wine that you enjoy drinking)
- 1 cup water

Preparing the meat

1. Washing and preparing the belly: Start by washing the pork belly well under cold running water. This will ensure you remove any impurities. After washing the meat, dry it with a paper towel to avoid excess water during cooking.

2. Cutting the meat: Use a sharp knife to cut the pork belly into suitable slices, about 1-2 cm thick. This will help the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices.

3. Preparing the garlic: Peel the head of garlic and crush the cloves with a knife or a pestle. The garlic will add an intense flavor to your dish.

4. Seasoning: In a bowl, mix the salt, pepper, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the meat slices, ensuring they are evenly coated. Add the crushed garlic, mixing well to distribute it.

Cooking in the oven

5. Preparing the baking dish: Choose a heat-resistant dish large enough to hold all the meat slices. Arrange the belly slices in the dish, being careful not to overlap them.

6. Adding liquids: Pour the white wine and water over the meat, so it is partially covered. These liquids will help maintain moisture and enhance the flavors.

7. Covering with foil: Cover the dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it is well sealed. This step is essential to keep the meat juicy.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about an hour. This time will allow the meat to tenderize and absorb the flavors.

9. Final browning: After an hour, remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. Let the meat continue to bake for another 30 minutes until it is nicely browned. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't dry out; if necessary, you can add a little water.

Serving

10. Preparing the side dish: While the belly is cooking, you can prepare a creamy mashed potato that will perfectly accompany this dish. You can add butter and milk for a smoother texture.

11. Fresh pickles: Don't forget your favorite pickles! Pickled cucumbers or peppers are the ideal choice, adding a contrast of textures and flavors that will complement the meal.

Suggestions and variations

- Oven-roasted vegetables: Another delicious option is to cook the belly on a bed of vegetables. You can use carrots, onions, peppers, or even potatoes. They will brown and absorb the meat's juices, adding extra flavor.

- Spice variations: Depending on your preferences, you can experiment with other spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to add a touch of freshness.

Useful tips

- Pork meat: Make sure to choose a quality pork belly with an optimal fat content to enjoy tender and juicy meat.

- Keeping the juices: During cooking, you can baste the meat with the sauce from the dish to keep it moist. This will add an additional layer of flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Pork belly is an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. A 100-gram serving of cooked pork belly contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the fat content. Additionally, the garlic added is not only flavorful but also known for its health benefits, having antibacterial and antioxidant effects.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, pork shoulder is an excellent alternative and can be prepared in the same way.

- How can I tell when the meat is done? Check if it's tender and juicy; you can use a cooking thermometer to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 70 degrees Celsius.

- Can it be prepared in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the belly, marinate it in the fridge overnight, and then bake it the next day. The flavor will be even more intense.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Oven-roasted pork belly will surely become one of your favorite dishes, and your loved ones will appreciate your effort. Enjoy your meal!