Pork crown with baked potatoes

Pork Crown with Baked Potatoes: A Delicacy for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 12 hours
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 13 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Who doesn’t love a delicious meal that impresses family and friends? Pork crown with baked potatoes is the perfect recipe for special occasions or a weekend dinner, being both tasty and spectacular. This dish combines the intense flavors of pork with those of potatoes, offering a unique culinary experience.

A Brief History

The pork crown is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations, often symbolizing family gatherings and celebrations. The use of garlic and red wine in the marinade is not only a delicious choice but also a method to tenderize the meat, enriching the final flavor. This recipe pays tribute to simple yet flavorful dishes that bring us together.

Ingredients

- 1-1.5 kg pork loin
- 1 kg potatoes
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1-2 bunches of green onions
- 50-70 g sweet paprika
- 2 cups red wine (1 for marinade, 1 for the pan)
- 50 ml honey
- 1 lemon
- Whole pepper
- Thyme (optional)
- Salt
- Olive oil (1-2 tablespoons)

Step by Step: Preparing the Pork Crown

Step 1: Marinating the Meat

1. Preparing the marinade: In a large bowl, add 1 cup of red wine, the juice of 1 lemon, 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 crushed head of garlic, whole pepper, salt, and 50 ml of honey. Mix the ingredients well to form a homogeneous marinade.
2. Caring for the meat: Rub the pork loin with the resulting mixture, ensuring all parts are covered. Place the meat in a special marinade bag and refrigerate until the next day. This step is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.

Step 2: Preparing for the Oven

1. Preheating the oven: Before removing the meat from the refrigerator, preheat the oven to 180°C. This will help achieve even cooking.
2. Forming the crown: Remove the meat from the bag and cut the loin almost to the bone, leaving it intact. Arrange it in the pan in a crown shape, taking care to maintain the integrity of the bone.
3. Preparing the garlic: Crush the second head of garlic and rub the meat with the resulting paste. Add the remaining red wine to the pan, season the meat with salt and pepper, and sprinkle a little thyme if desired.

Step 3: Preparing the Potato Side Dish

1. Cleaning the potatoes: Wash and peel 1 kg of potatoes, cutting them into equal pieces for even cooking. You can choose cubes or slices, depending on your preference.
2. Seasoning: In a bowl, mix the potatoes with 1-2 finely chopped bunches of green onions, 50-70 g of sweet paprika, salt, a splash of olive oil, and add enough water to partially cover the potatoes.
3. Arranging in the pan: Add the potatoes around the meat in the pan, gently mixing to incorporate them into the meat's flavors.

Step 4: Baking

1. Placing in the oven: Put the pan in the preheated oven and let everything bake for 30-40 minutes. It’s essential to check occasionally to ensure everything is cooking evenly.
2. Basting the meat: Every 10-15 minutes, remove the pan and baste the meat with the juices formed in the pan to keep it moist. Repeat this process 2-3 times.
3. Checking for doneness: Use a meat thermometer, if available, to check if the internal temperature has reached approximately 70°C. The potatoes should be soft and golden.

Serving the Pork Crown

After removing the pan from the oven, let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, giving you more tender and flavorful meat. Serve the pork crown alongside the baked potatoes, garnishing with a little fresh green onion for added color and flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality meat: Try to use pork from a trusted supplier. Pork with a higher fat content will be juicier.
- Herb variation: You can experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, which can add a distinctive note to the recipe.
- Add a sweet touch: If desired, you can add a few slices of apple or pear to the pan for a sweet note to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can also be adapted for other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, though the cooking time will vary.

- How can I store the meat for later use?
After cooking, let the meat cool, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It can be consumed within 3-4 days.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry red wine is the ideal choice, but you can also opt for a light beer or fresh lemonade for a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Pork loin is an excellent source of protein, rich in B vitamins, which help maintain energy levels. Potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates and fiber, essential for good digestion. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, adding a health boost to your dish.

Possible Variations

1. Fruit crown: Add slices of peaches or pineapple to the marinade for a sweet-tart flavor.
2. Cheesy potatoes: Sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes in the last 10 minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor.

In conclusion, pork crown with baked potatoes is a recipe that combines tradition and innovation, bringing to the table a delicious dish perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!