Roast pork

Oven-roasted pork: a classic recipe full of flavor

Who doesn't love the aroma of slow-cooked pork roast, with a perfectly browned crust and juicy interior? This oven-roasted pork recipe is not only simple but also a true feast, perfect for family meals or special occasions. Let's embark on the preparation of this delicious dish!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 6 slices of pork neck
- 6 slices of pork leg
- Salt, ground pepper, thyme, nutmeg (to taste)
- 7-8 whole peppercorns
- 3-4 bay leaves
- 5-6 cloves
- 1 head of garlic
- 200-250 ml tomato juice
- 100 ml white wine
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 200 ml warm water

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the meat
Start by washing the slices of meat well, then dry them with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust during cooking. If you wish, you can lightly pound the meat with a meat mallet to tenderize it and allow the spices to penetrate better.

2. Seasoning
Place the slices of meat in a baking dish. Now comes the interesting part! Pour the 200 ml of warm water and 100 ml of white wine over the meat. These liquids will help keep the meat juicy and create a delicious sauce. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, ground pepper, thyme, and nutmeg to taste. The olive oil will not only add flavor but also help brown the meat.

3. Flavoring
Crush the head of garlic (for a more intense flavor) and add it to the dish along with the peppercorns, bay leaves, and cloves. These spices will transform the roast into an unforgettable culinary experience. Gently mix everything to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the roast cook for about 1 hour. After 30 minutes, turn the slices of meat to brown evenly on both sides. It is important to baste the meat occasionally with the sauce from the dish to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Finishing
When the meat has developed a golden and appetizing crust on both sides, add the remaining wine and tomato juice to taste. These will enrich the sauce and intensify the flavors. Let it simmer in the oven for another 10-15 minutes.

Serving
The oven-roasted pork is served hot, alongside various side dishes. You can opt for mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or fresh salads. A cabbage salad or a beetroot salad pairs wonderfully with this dish, bringing a pleasant contrast.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the meat: When selecting the slices of meat, opt for pieces with a moderate amount of fat. This will add juiciness and flavor to the roast.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the dish to roast alongside the pork. They will absorb the flavors from the sauce and become extremely tasty.
- The sauce: Don’t forget to reserve the remaining sauce from the dish! You can use it as a garnish for the roast or even to prepare a delicious pasta dish.

Nutritional Benefits
Pork roast is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. It also contains B vitamins, which play an important role in energy metabolism and nervous system health. Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while white wine adds a note of flavor complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of meat?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted with beef or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.

- How can I tell if the roast is perfectly cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 70°C to be considered cooked.

- Is this roast suitable for a festive meal?
Absolutely! It pairs perfectly with festive meals, alongside elegant sides and a good wine.

Personal Story
I have always loved cooking oven-roasted pork for family gatherings. Childhood memories come to mind when my mother would prepare it on Sundays, and the aromatic scent would fill the entire house. It was a tradition for us to gather around the table, where every piece of meat was savored with joy. I hope this recipe brings the same moments of happiness to your home!

Enjoy preparing this oven-roasted pork and remember that every recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Bon appétit!