Pork neck in sesame crust

Delicious Recipe: Sesame-Crusted Pork Neck

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

A sesame-crusted pork neck recipe will not only bring a burst of flavor to your table but will also transform a simple ingredient into an unforgettable culinary experience. This combination of flavors and textures, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, is perfect for a weekend dinner or to impress your guests. Whether served alongside a simple side dish or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Brief History

Pork neck has always been a versatile ingredient, appreciated in kitchens around the world. With its rich flavor and tender texture, it lends itself perfectly to various dishes. The sesame crust adds a crunchy element and a nutty note, turning an ordinary dish into a feast. This recipe is a perfect example of how you can combine simple elements to achieve a sophisticated result.

Ingredients

- 500 g smoked pork neck (choose a well-maintained piece)
- 3 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or classic mustard, depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey (natural honey for an authentic taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin olive oil is ideal for flavor)
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (its aroma will enhance the meat's flavor)
- 100 g sesame seeds (you can use white or black sesame, according to your preference)

Preparation Techniques

1. Preparing the meat: Start by boiling the pork neck. Place the piece of meat in a pot with cold water and let it boil for 10 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat and improve its final texture. After boiling, remove it and let it cool slightly.

2. Making the sauce: In a bowl, mix the mustard, honey, olive oil, and finely chopped rosemary. This sauce will add a sweet and savory note to the meat. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Preparing the crust: In another bowl, place the sesame seeds. This will create a delicious and crunchy crust. It’s important to use freshly toasted sesame seeds to enhance their flavor.

4. Coating the meat: Once the pork neck has cooled slightly, evenly coat it with the prepared sauce. Make sure each portion is well covered, as this will help the sesame seeds stick.

5. Coating with sesame: Roll the pork neck in the sesame seeds, ensuring it is evenly covered. This will create a crunchy layer that will brown beautifully during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the pork neck on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes. You’ll want to watch for the sesame to turn golden and crispy.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for high-quality smoked pork neck for a more intense flavor. If you prefer, you can also use fresh pork, but in this case, the boiling time may be longer.
- Sauce variations: You can experiment by adding crushed garlic to the sauce or a teaspoon of soy sauce for an umami flavor.
- Suitable sides: Sesame-crusted pork neck pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables. For a more exotic touch, spiced basmati rice will perfectly complement this dish.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is rich in protein and, thanks to the sesame, provides healthy fats. One serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 38 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe works well with chicken breast or turkey. The cooking time will be similar, but ensure the meat is cooked through.

2. How can I make the sesame crust more flavorful?
You can add spices like paprika, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sesame seeds to enhance the flavor.

3. Is this recipe good for making in advance?
While it’s best served freshly baked, you can prepare the pork and sauce a day ahead and then bake it before serving.

Serving

For an added touch of elegance, you can garnish the plate with fresh rosemary or parsley leaves. A bottle of white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

This sesame-crusted pork neck recipe is simple, quick, and full of delicious flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and share the dish with your loved ones! Bon appétit!