Pork in a tray with tomato and garlic sauce

Pork in a baking dish with tomato and garlic sauce

Total preparation time: 3 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

I propose a delicious and comforting recipe for pork in a baking dish with tomato and garlic sauce, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. This recipe combines the intense flavors of pork with a vibrant tomato sauce, creating a savory dish that will remind you of Sunday meals, where the whole family gathers around the same table.

The history of this dish is simple yet full of tradition. Cooking meat in rich sauces has been an effective way to keep it tender and full of flavor. In many cultures, pork is a staple ingredient, and the combination with tomatoes and garlic quickly became a favorite in kitchens around the world.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg pork neck (choose a piece with some fat for a richer taste)
- 400 ml tomato juice (you can also use crushed tomatoes)
- 200 g canned tomatoes with basil
- 6 cloves of garlic (or more, to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Spices: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, salt to taste, and a pinch of Delikat (or another pork seasoning)

For garnish:
- Mashed potatoes (you can find the recipe on the site)
- Roasted peppers

Step 1: Preparing the meat

Start by cutting the pork neck into medium-sized pieces (about 4-5 cm). This allows the meat to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce. In a bowl, add the pieces of meat and the spices: thyme, basil, paprika, pepper, and salt. Mix well so that each piece is evenly coated.

Practical tips: You can marinate the meat in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight. This way, the flavors will intensify and the final result will be truly savory.

Step 2: Preparing the sauce

In a blender or with a mortar, crush the garlic cloves. Then, in a bowl, combine the crushed garlic with the tomato juice and canned tomatoes. Add a little salt and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 3: Baking the meat

Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking dish, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and a little water to prevent sticking. Place the pieces of meat in the dish, cut side up. Put the dish in the oven for 30 minutes. After this time, turn the pieces of meat to brown evenly and leave them for another 15 minutes.

Step 4: Adding the sauce

After the meat has been in the oven for 45 minutes, take the dish out and pour the tomato and garlic sauce over the meat. Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to retain moisture) and leave it in the oven for another 30-40 minutes on low heat. It’s important to turn the pieces of meat occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Tips for achieving a perfect result: Make sure not to open the oven too often, as this can affect the temperature and cooking time.

Step 5: Serving

Finally, when the meat is tender and well-cooked, take the dish out of the oven. You can let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

For an extra touch of flavor, serve the pork in a baking dish with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and roasted peppers. The roasted peppers add a sweet and smoky note that perfectly complements the rich taste of the meat.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can replace the pork neck with chicken thighs or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I improve the sauce? You can add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a more intense flavor.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry red wine or a pale lager would perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:

Pork is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health. Garlic, in addition to its flavor, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Possible variations:

For a spicier version, you can add chili peppers to the sauce or spices like cumin or smoked paprika. You can also experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as those with basil or oregano for extra flavor.

In conclusion, this recipe for pork in a baking dish with tomato and garlic sauce is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family meals or to impress guests. Its rich flavor and intense aromas will make you return to this recipe again and again. Enjoy your meal!