Pork roast with oven vegetables

Pork roast with oven vegetables is a classic recipe, perfect for family meals or special occasions. This juicy and flavorful roast, accompanied by oven-cooked vegetables, will turn any ordinary meal into a true feast of flavors. Moreover, it is a simple and quick recipe that requires only a few basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 - 1.5 hours
Number of servings: 4 - 6

Required ingredients

- 600 g pork (shoulder or leg are the best choices)
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1-2 apples, sliced (this will add a hint of sweetness)
- 1 onion, julienned
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- juice of one lemon
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- thyme (fresh or dried)
- salt and pepper, to taste
- spice mix (paprika, rosemary, oregano)

Preparation: Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the oven and vegetables
Start by preheating the oven to 220 °C. This step is essential for achieving a well-browned roast. Meanwhile, clean and cut the vegetables: carrots, parsnip, and potatoes into uniform-sized cubes to cook evenly. The apples can be sliced to add a touch of sweetness that will complement the meat's flavors.

Step 2: Preparing the meat
Make a few slashes in the meat, on the top side, to allow the spices to penetrate better. Rub the meat with salt, pepper, the spice mix, thyme, and crushed garlic. It is important to use quality spices, as they will significantly influence the final flavor of the dish.

Step 3: Assembling the dish
In a heat-resistant dish, add the meat and the prepared vegetables. Drizzle everything with olive oil, lemon juice, and vinegar. These ingredients will help tenderize the meat and provide a fresh taste. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, then gently mix to ensure all ingredients are well distributed.

Step 4: Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 1 - 1.5 hours. It is recommended to check the meat after the first hour; it should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. A good technique is to use a meat thermometer – the internal temperature of the pork should be about 70 °C to be properly cooked.

Step 5: Finalizing
After baking, turn off the oven and let the dish rest in the oven for another 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to intensify and integrate better. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain heat.

Serving
Remove the roast from the oven and place the meat on a platter, leaving the vegetables in the dish for serving. You can garnish the dish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or lemon slices for a touch of freshness. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine or a cold blonde beer, which will complement the flavors of the meat.

Useful tips
- Ingredients can vary: Don’t be afraid to experiment! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other favorite vegetable. You can also drizzle the meat with wine or beer for an extra flavor boost.
- Meat alternative: For a vegetarian version, you can replace the pork with tofu or tempeh, and the vegetables can be cooked in the same manner.
- Calorie reductions: By using less oil and omitting salt, you can significantly reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Slow cooking: If you have time, you can prepare this dish in a slow cooker. Add all ingredients and let them cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, chicken is an excellent alternative, but the cooking time will be shorter. Make sure not to exceed 1 hour of baking for chicken.

2. What vegetables are best for this recipe?
Carrots, potatoes, and parsnips are a classic choice, but zucchini, cauliflower, or broccoli work wonderfully.

3. How can I tell when the meat is done?
Use a meat thermometer; pork should reach 70 °C internally.

4. What side dishes go well with this roast?
A fresh green salad or mashed potatoes are excellent sides that complement this dish.

Conclusion
Pork roast with oven vegetables is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients and an easy cooking technique, you can prepare a delicious meal that will impress even the most discerning guests. Whether you choose to serve it with family or at a dinner with friends, this recipe will surely become a favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!