Pork steak with a spice crust

Pork roast with a spice crust is a delicious recipe that will turn any meal into a special occasion. This roast, with its crunchy and flavorful crust, pairs perfectly with a fine tomato sauce, offering an ideal balance of flavors and textures. It is an excellent choice for a Sunday lunch or a festive dinner. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful recipe step by step, starting with the necessary ingredients and ending with useful tips for a perfect result.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the roast:
- 800-900 grams of pork rib chop
- 3 tablespoons of Italian spices for roasting
- 200 ml of red wine
- 1 egg
- 3 heaping tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 200 ml of oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the tomato sauce:
- 500 grams of fresh tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of Tabasco (optional, for a spicy taste)
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of oil
- 1 teaspoon of cream
- Salt and pepper to taste

A brief history

Pork roast is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations around the world. Its rich flavor and juicy texture have made pork an essential ingredient in many culinary cultures. The spice crust adds a touch of sophistication and intensity, transforming a simple piece of meat into a specialty worthy of the most elegant tables.

Preparing the roast

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork chop well under cold running water. After washing, place it on a paper towel to dry completely. This step is essential for achieving a crunchy crust.

2. Creating the crust: In a bowl, mix the Italian spices, breadcrumbs, flour, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give the meat a special flavor and a crunchy texture. Make sure it is well combined.

3. Beating the egg: In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt. This mixture will serve as glue for the spice crust.

4. Coating the meat: Take the pork chop and coat it on all sides in the egg, ensuring it is completely covered. Then, transfer it to the bowl with the spice mixture. Press the meat well into the spices to form an even crust.

5. Frying: In a wok or deep skillet, heat the oil over high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chop. Fry it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes or until the crust turns golden and crispy. This step is important for sealing in the juices of the meat.

6. Baking: After frying the meat, transfer it to a ceramic dish. Add the red wine, which will help tenderize the meat and add a rich flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 150 degrees Celsius. Bake the roast for about 1 hour and a half, until the meat is tender and juicy.

Preparing the tomato sauce

1. Tomatoes: Wash and slice the tomatoes. Place them in a pot and cook on medium heat until they soften well.

2. Straining: Once the tomatoes are cooked, transfer them to a strainer and use a wooden spoon to mash them, leaving only the skins and seeds. This is an essential step for obtaining a fine sauce.

3. Cooking the sauce: Put the obtained juice back into the pot, adding salt, pepper, oil, honey, and Tabasco. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Finishing the sauce: Finally, add the cream to give the sauce a creamy texture and refined taste. Mix well and taste to adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Serving

Once the roast is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute in the meat, making it even juicier. Serve the slices of chop with the tomato sauce on top or alongside, along with sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: Choose a quality pork rib chop with a layer of fat. The fat will add flavor and juiciness during baking.
- Spices: You can experiment with different spices, adding, for example, garlic powder or smoked paprika for a more intense flavor.
- Variations: If you want a spicier version, you can add more Tabasco to the sauce or use hot paprika in the spice mixture.
- Storing: If you have leftover roast, you can keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the next day it is just as delicious, even in sandwiches!

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! This recipe also works with chicken or turkey. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat used.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch diluted in cold water and then boil until it thickens.

3. What other recipes can it be combined with?
Pork roast with spice crust pairs perfectly with simple sides like mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or a fresh green salad. A glass of red wine will also complement this dish perfectly.

Conclusion

Pork roast with a spice crust is a dish that not only impresses with its appearance but also with its rich and complex flavor. With a fine and aromatic tomato sauce, this recipe becomes a family and friends' favorite. Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices or sides and personalize your recipe! Enjoy your meal!