Spiced Pork Neck with Beer, Baked

To prepare a delicious honey and mustard marinated meat, start by choosing quality cuts of meat, such as chicken breast or pork tenderloin. These are ideal due to their juicy texture and ability to absorb the marinated flavors. Begin by gently pounding the pieces of meat with a meat mallet to even out their thickness; this will not only help the spices penetrate but also make the meat more tender.

Once you have prepared the meat, generously season it with salt and pepper on both sides. Prepare a mixture of honey and mustard, ensuring it is well combined. Brush each piece of meat with this mixture, making sure it is evenly coated. Cover all the pieces with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and leave them in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This marinating will intensify the flavors and give the meat a special taste.

After the meat has marinated, take it out of the refrigerator and prepare a heat-resistant dish. Arrange the pieces of meat in the dish, being careful not to overlap them. Sprinkle thyme, basil, and crushed garlic over them, as these spices pair perfectly with the sweetness of the honey and the strong flavor of the mustard. Drizzle everything with olive oil to add extra flavor and help brown the meat.

To further enhance the taste, pour beer into the dish. The beer will add moisture and help create a delicious sauce during baking. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and place the dish covered with aluminum foil inside. Let the meat bake for 20 minutes so that the flavors combine and the meat becomes tender.

After 20 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and let the meat continue to bake so that it browns nicely on both sides. It is important to check the meat to ensure it is fully cooked and the sauce is reduced and thickened. When ready, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Serve the meat warm, alongside a generous sauce from the dish. You can opt for sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, and for a fresh contrast, add a green salad or pickles. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a festive air to your table. Enjoy your meal!