Pork Ribs and Roasted Potatoes

Oven-Baked Pork Ribs with Seasoned Potatoes - An Unforgettable Delicacy

In the culinary universe, few dishes manage to bring together the rich flavor of meat with the delicate aromas of vegetables, and today's recipe, pork ribs and baked potatoes, is a perfect example. This recipe is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will transport you to a world of flavors and textures, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. Let's discover together each step of this delicious recipe!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the pork ribs:
- 500-600 g pork ribs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 150 ml semi-sweet white wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked, depending on preference)

For the baked potatoes:
- 4-6 medium potatoes, washed and peeled
- 100 g grated Parmesan (or cheese, if preferred)
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Salt, pepper, olive oil, and butter for greasing the tray

History of the Dish:

Pork ribs are a traditional dish found in many culinary cultures, often associated with festive meals and celebrations. Cooked slowly, the ribs become extremely tender, and the combination with crispy baked potatoes makes them an ideal partner. This recipe combines marinating and baking techniques that help enhance the flavors and achieve a perfect texture.

Preparing the Marinade for Ribs:

1. Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, add the chopped onion, crushed garlic, melted butter, and white wine. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.
2. Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. This marinade will infuse the ribs with a delicious flavor.

Marinating the Pork Ribs:

1. Place the pork ribs in an airtight container and pour the marinade over them. Make sure all the ribs are evenly covered.
2. Cover the container with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. If you have time, you can let the ribs marinate even longer, even overnight, for a more intense flavor.

Preparing the Potatoes:

1. Meanwhile, wash the potatoes well, then peel and cut them into cubes about 3 cm in size. This will ensure even cooking.
2. Preheat the oven to 200°C (medium heat).
3. Grease a baking tray with butter and arrange the potato cubes in the tray. Sprinkle fresh rosemary on top, add salt and pepper to taste, then drizzle with olive oil.

Baking the Potatoes:

1. Place the tray with potatoes in the preheated oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes. Check them occasionally, gently stirring to ensure even browning.
2. After this time, test if they are done with a fork. If they are soft and lightly browned, you can add the grated Parmesan on top and leave them in the oven for another 10-15 minutes until melted and crispy.

Preparing the Pork Ribs:

1. Meanwhile, remove the ribs from the marinade and drain them gently. You can place them on a grill for a smoky flavor or in a pan with a little oil over medium heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently, until they are golden and crispy.
2. After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes on an absorbent paper towel to eliminate excess fat.

Assembling the Dish:

1. When the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and place them on a large platter.
2. Arrange the pork ribs on top of the potatoes for an appetizing look.
3. You can add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for extra flavor and an elegant appearance.

Serving Suggestion:

This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Additionally, a bottle of semi-sweet white wine will harmoniously complement your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can replace the pork ribs with chicken breast or beef, adjusting the marinating and cooking time accordingly.

2. What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with herbs like thyme, oregano, or dried rosemary for a different flavor.

3. How can I make the potatoes crispier?
You can pre-boil the potatoes for a few minutes before baking, or you can add a little cornstarch to the oil mixture.

Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe is an excellent source of protein from the meat, while the potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C. The Parmesan adds calcium and protein, making this dish a balanced and nutritious meal.

Vegan Option:

For a vegan version of this dish, you can use plant-based ribs (available in specialty stores) and replace the cheese with a mix of ground nuts or seeds with nutritional yeast for an umami flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I encourage you to try this recipe for pork ribs with baked potatoes. It's a culinary experience that brings family and friends together at the table, creating delicious memories. Enjoy your meal!