Pork loin in orange crust

Pork Leg in Orange Crust – a Flavorful and Comforting Lunch

If you are looking for a recipe that brings a touch of magic to your table, you have come to the right place! Pork leg in orange crust is a savory dish that perfectly combines fruity flavors with the richness of pork meat. This recipe is not just a simple meal, but a true culinary experience that will delight your senses. Moreover, it is an excellent choice for a lunch or a special dinner.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 pork leg (approximately 700 g)
- 1 orange (preferably organic)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- a few sprigs of fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons of orange jam
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 500 g peas (preferably frozen)
- 50 g sour cream
- milk (to preference)
- salt (to taste)
- grated nutmeg (optional)

History and Inspiration
This pork leg in orange crust recipe has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. The combination of pork with citrus is a classic, dating back to times when people wanted to bring a touch of freshness to their dishes. The orange, with its sweet-sour flavor, not only enhances the taste of the meat but also adds a note of elegance.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by washing the orange thoroughly to remove any pesticides or impurities from the skin. Then, using a fine grater, zest the orange, being careful not to take the white part, which is bitter. After you have the zest, squeeze the juice from the orange and set it aside.

2. Preparing the Meat: Wash the pork leg under cold running water and pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is essential to achieve a crispy crust at the end. In a bowl, finely chop the garlic and parsley, then mix them with the orange zest.

3. Seasoning the Meat: Season the pork leg with salt and pepper, then generously brush it with the orange jam. This glaze will add a sweet note and help form the crust. After you have coated the meat, roll it in the mixture of orange zest, garlic, and parsley, ensuring it is evenly covered.

4. Marinating: Place the seasoned leg in a heat-resistant dish and pour the orange juice over it. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and refrigerate for about 2 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, making it juicier and tastier.

5. Cooking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. After the marinating time has passed, place the dish in the oven (still covered). Let the meat bake for one hour. After one hour, remove the aluminum foil or lid and let the meat brown for another 30 minutes. This step will create a delicious golden crust.

6. The Side Dish: While the meat is baking, you can prepare the side dish. Boil the peas (if frozen, it will take about 15 minutes). Once cooked, puree them using a blender, gradually adding the sour cream and milk until you achieve the desired consistency. Finally, season with salt and, optionally, a little grated nutmeg for extra flavor.

7. Serving: Once the pork leg is cooked and browned, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the meat alongside the pea puree, and for an elegant touch, you can add a few slices of fresh orange on the plate.

Helpful Tips:
- Choose the meat carefully: A pork leg with a layer of fat will add juiciness to your dish. Lean meat can lead to a dry result.
- Use quality orange jam: A natural jam without preservatives will make a difference in the taste of the dish. You can also use a citrus marmalade for a more complex flavor.
- Add spices: If you like, you can add other spices like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture.
- Vary the side dish: Besides the pea puree, you can serve the meat with roasted potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for chicken or turkey.
- How can I enhance the flavor? By adding some fresh herbs or spices alongside garlic and parsley.
- How can I store leftovers? The pork leg can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Delicious Combinations:
This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. Additionally, for a complete meal, add a crudités salad or a yogurt sauce with dill.

Pork leg in orange crust is not just a recipe, but a story you can share with your loved ones. Whether you choose to prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, it promises to bring joy in every bite. Enjoy your meal!