Pork loin on a bed of vegetables in the oven

Pork Belly on a Bed of Vegetables in the Oven

A dish that combines the flavor of pork with the freshness of vegetables, this recipe for pork belly on a bed of vegetables in the oven is perfect for impressing guests or for a family dinner. With an inviting aroma of rosemary and garlic, this dish is sure to become a favorite for everyone.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 piece of pork belly with bone (approximately 1.5 - 2 kg)
- 2 carrots
- 2 zucchinis
- 2 red bell peppers
- 7-8 potatoes (preferably medium-sized)
- 1 red onion
- 1 leek
- 300 g mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 4-5 garlic cloves
- 50 g sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking

A bit of history:
Pork belly is a versatile and cherished meat in many culinary cultures. This recipe brings together the tradition of oven cooking with fresh seasonal ingredients, resulting in a dish that is both nourishing and full of flavor. Oven cooking allows the flavors to intensify, and the vegetables to caramelize, enriching every bite.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork belly well. Use a sharp knife to lightly score the surface of the meat, making slits about 1 cm deep. This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat better. Season the meat with salt, rosemary, and crushed garlic. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes for the flavors to develop.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices or cubes, as preferred. Cut the carrots and zucchinis into small cubes, and slice the onion and leek into rings. Leave the mushrooms whole, and cut the red bell peppers into strips. These vegetables not only add color but also a delicious taste to the dish.

3. Assembling the dish: In a large baking tray, pour a drizzle of olive oil, then add all the chopped vegetables. Sprinkle salt and sweet paprika over them and mix well to ensure that each piece is evenly coated with spices. Place the pork belly on top of the vegetables, with the scored side facing up, so it browns nicely during baking.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the tray with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then place it in the oven. Bake for about 1 hour. After this period, remove the foil and allow it to bake for another hour, to allow the meat to become browned and crispy on top.

5. Serving: Once the pork belly is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside the caramelized vegetables from the tray. A salad of red and white cabbage, with a light vinegar and oil dressing, perfectly complements this dish, bringing a fresh and crunchy contrast.

Practical tips:
- If you want an extra flavor boost, you can add herbs like thyme or oregano to the vegetable mix.
- Make sure the pork belly has a layer of fat, as this will contribute to the juiciness of the meat during baking.
- You can use seasonal vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or pumpkin, to add variety and a different taste.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork belly, and the vegetables add a variety of vitamins and minerals. One serving contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the size of the portions. It is a complete meal that provides both essential nutrients and taste satisfaction.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey or chicken instead of pork?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using turkey or chicken. The cooking time will be different, so make sure to check the meat's doneness.

- What other vegetables can I use?
You can experiment with vegetables like beets, cauliflower, or broccoli, depending on your preferences.

- How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Possible variations:
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a mustard or honey sauce on the pork belly before putting it in the oven. You can also serve the dish with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

This pork belly on a bed of vegetables in the oven is not only a simple recipe but also a culinary experience that brings together flavors, textures, and colors, perfect for any occasion!