Pork loin with mushrooms and leeks

Pork leg with mushrooms and leeks - a delight worthy of any festive table!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a hearty main course that combines savory flavors and pleasant textures? Pork leg with mushrooms and leeks is an easy-to-make recipe that brings together the intense flavors of pork and the delicacy of mushrooms and leeks. The origins of this recipe can be found in the culinary traditions of many cultures, where pork is often associated with celebrations and festive meals.

Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Ingredients:

- 600 g pork leg (choose a piece with a little fat for a richer taste)
- 250 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or forest mushrooms for a more intense flavor)
- 2 leeks (these add a sweet and aromatic note)
- 1 head of garlic (olive oil or vegetable oil)
- 200 ml oil (for frying and greasing)
- 1 egg (to bind the filling)
- Iodized salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)

Recipe Steps:

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by shaping the pork leg into a uniform rectangle. This will allow for easy rolling of the meat, creating a beautiful visual effect when sliced. Use a sharp knife and be careful not to cut too deep. Once you have the desired shape, season the meat with salt and pepper on both sides. Cover the pork leg with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15 minutes. This step helps enhance the flavors.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
While the meat rests, it’s the perfect time to prepare the filling. Clean the leeks and mushrooms. Slice the leeks into thin rounds and chop the mushrooms into small cubes. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté the leeks and mushrooms for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the leeks become soft and the mushrooms release their juices.

Step 3: Flavoring the filling
After sautéing the vegetables, remove the pan from heat and add the 2 crushed garlic cloves. Garlic adds an extra layer of aroma and flavor. Let the mixture cool slightly, then add the egg and mix well until combined.

Step 4: Assembling the roll
Take the pork leg out of the fridge. Spread the mushroom and leek mixture evenly over the surface of the meat. Carefully start rolling the meat from one of the long sides to form a tight roll. Secure the edges with toothpicks to ensure the filling doesn’t escape during baking.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the roll in a greased baking dish, and the remaining chopped garlic can be sprinkled on top for added flavor. Bake the roll for about 50 minutes at medium heat. During baking, the meat will become tender and juicy.

Step 6: Serving
Once the baking time is up, remove the roll from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This step is essential to prevent the juices from running out of the meat. Serve the roll alongside your favorite side dish – creamy mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables are excellent options!

Tips and Tricks:

- Choosing the meat: Opt for a quality pork leg with a moderate amount of fat to achieve a juicy dish.
- Side dishes: A fresh salad or sautéed vegetables can add a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a meat-free version, you can replace the pork leg with a large tomato stuffed with the leek and mushroom mixture and then baked.
- Storage: The roll can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor will become even more intense.

Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe is rich in protein from the pork and fiber from the vegetables, providing a balanced meal. Mushrooms provide B vitamins, and leeks contain antioxidants that contribute to heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can the roll be frozen?
Yes, the roll can be frozen before or after baking. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

What drinks go well with this dish?
A dry red wine or apple cider would perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Personal Note:

This recipe brings back fond childhood memories, when I spent weekends with family, savoring delicious dishes cooked with love. I love serving it on special occasions, and each portion becomes a story I share with loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!