Pork breast with vegetables

Pork belly with vegetables: a delicious and comforting recipe

In every kitchen, there are those recipes that remind us of pleasant family moments, lavish meals, and childhood flavors. This pork belly with vegetables recipe fits perfectly into this category, bringing back the warmth and aroma of a lovingly cooked meal. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines succulent meat with fresh vegetables, all baked to preserve the flavors.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 300 g pork belly (ideally with a bit of fat for juiciness)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 large potato
- 1 onion
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (to taste)
- Spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika, thyme or other preferred spices)
- 200 ml tomato juice (or crushed fresh tomatoes)

Preparation of pork belly with vegetables:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the pork belly of any skin and impurities. If the belly is too thick, make shallow cuts in a few places. This step will help the flavors penetrate and ensure even cooking. Season the meat with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and thyme. Garlic is a magical ingredient that will add extra flavor, so crush a few cloves and rub them on the surface of the meat.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the carrot, potato, and onion. Slice the carrot into thin rounds, dice the potato, and cut the onion into rings. These vegetables not only add a splash of color but also a crunchy texture that will contrast perfectly with the tender meat.

3. Assembling the dish: In a baking tray, place the pork belly in the center, and add the chopped vegetables around it. Make sure they are evenly distributed for proper cooking. Pour the tomato juice over everything, ensuring it covers the meat and vegetables. The tomato juice will not only add a delicious flavor but will also create a wonderful sauce for serving.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and let the dish bake for about 1 hour. It's important to turn the meat occasionally for even browning on all sides. This way, you will achieve a delicious and crispy crust.

5. Serving: Once the pork belly is cooked and the vegetables are tender, remove the tray from the oven. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, alongside the vegetables from the tray, and for an extra touch of flavor, you can add a few sprigs of fresh parsley.

Practical tips:

- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a few slices of bell pepper or zucchini, which will soften and add a hint of sweetness.
- For an even more nutrient-rich dish, consider using seasonal vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
- Always check if the meat is well-cooked using a kitchen thermometer, which should indicate an internal temperature of 70°C.

Nutritional benefits:

This pork belly with vegetables recipe is not only tasty but also nutritionally balanced. Pork belly is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Potatoes and carrots are rich in healthy carbohydrates, giving you the energy needed throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, you can use chicken breast, but the cooking time will be shorter, approximately 30-40 minutes.
- How can I store the dish for later consumption? This dish keeps excellently in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
- What side dishes can I serve alongside? This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes.

Variations of the recipe:

- Pork belly with apples: Add a few slices of apple next to the meat for a sweet-sour note.
- Pork curry: Season the meat with curry powder for an exotic flavor.
- Pork belly with red wine: Replace the tomato juice with red wine for a richer taste and deeper aroma.

Serving suggestion:

For an elegant presentation, you can place the meat on a large platter, decorated with fresh herbs and lemon slices. Offer your guests a summer salad as a side, based on tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, for a perfect contrast of flavors.

So, get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. This pork belly with vegetables recipe is not only an excellent choice for a family dinner but also an opportunity to create memories. Enjoy your meal!