Pork steak with new potatoes and rosemary

Pork roast with new potatoes baked in the oven is a dish that combines tradition with flavor, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for lovers of hearty and tasty food, and the carefully selected ingredients bring a special taste, thanks to Mangalita pork and homemade smoked bacon. Let's explore each step together to achieve a perfect roast, accompanied by golden potatoes and a fresh salad.

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

Ingredients:
- 800 g Mangalita pork
- 400 g homemade smoked bacon
- 1 kg new potatoes
- 2 tablespoons fresh pork lard (optional)
- 2 green garlic stalks
- 2 green rosemary sprigs
- 2 teaspoons powdered rosemary
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons hot pepper paste
- 4 green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 bunch of fresh green parsley
- Salt, to taste

A touch of history
Pork roast has deep roots in culinary tradition, often associated with festive meals and family gatherings. Pork, with its tender texture and rich flavor, has always been a popular choice. Mangalita, a carefully raised breed of pig, stands out for its juicy and flavorful meat, making it ideal for oven dishes.

Preparing the ingredients
1. Potatoes: Wash the new potatoes well under a stream of cold water to remove dirt. Boil them in a pot of water with salt for about 5 minutes. This step will help soften them, making them easier to peel later. After boiling, drain and peel them.

2. Meat: Slicing the Mangalita pork and smoked bacon is essential for ensuring even marination. Cut the meat into suitable pieces so that it cooks evenly.

3. Vegetables and spices: Wash the green onions, green garlic, rosemary, and parsley well. Chop them finely and set aside. These herbs will add a fresh and vibrant taste to your dish.

Creating the seasoning paste
1. In a bowl, combine the fresh pork lard (if you choose to use it) with all the spices: powdered rosemary, dried parsley, hot pepper paste, garlic granules, and sweet paprika. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous paste.

2. Massaging the meat: With this delicious paste, massage each piece of meat well. Ensure that each portion is evenly coated with spices. Then, rub the potatoes with this paste to give them a special flavor.

Assembling and baking
1. In a baking tray, arrange the potatoes in a single layer. Place the smoked bacon on top, so the fat drips over the potatoes during baking. This will add a unique flavor to the dish.

2. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 1 hour. During baking, remember to occasionally sprinkle a little water to prevent the meat from drying out and to ensure a juicy dish.

3. Every 20 minutes, turn the meat to brown it evenly. It is important to pay attention to this step to achieve a golden and delicious crust.

Serving
Once the roast is ready, take the tray out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions
This delicious roast pairs perfectly with a fresh salad of raw vegetables. A salad of green cucumbers, tomatoes, and green onions will add a note of freshness and balance the richness of the roast. You can also accompany this dish with a dry red wine, which will enhance the flavors of the meat.

Possible variations
If you want to make the dish lighter, you can skip the pork lard. Additionally, instead of smoked bacon, you can use another smoked meat or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can add a personal twist to the recipe.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This roast is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the pork, and contains healthy fats from the lard. The new potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. It is important to consume these dishes in moderation, but they can be part of a balanced diet when accompanied by fresh salads and vegetables.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with chicken, beef, or even turkey.

- How can I make the roast spicier?
Add more hot pepper paste or spicy seasonings to the seasoning paste.

- What drinks pair best with this dish?
A dry red wine or a pale beer are excellent choices that complement the roast.

Conclusion
Pork roast with new potatoes is more than just a dish – it is a true feast for the senses! With each bite, you will enjoy the perfect combination of juicy meat and flavored potatoes, accompanied by a fresh salad. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!