Stuffed pork muscle

Stuffed pork loin roasted with crispy potato garnish

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world where meals are often quick and superficial, stuffed pork loin reminds us of the beauty of home cooking. This traditional recipe not only indulges our senses but also brings back memories of special moments spent with loved ones. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

The history of stuffed pork loin is rich with culinary traditions that vary from culture to culture. The technique of infusing meat with fragrant flavors, such as garlic and sage, enhances not only the taste but also the juiciness of the meat. This dish is perfect to be enjoyed with a red wine or a craft beer, adding a touch of elegance to your table.

Ingredients needed

For the pork loin:
- 1 kg pork loin
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce

For the potato garnish:
- 4 large potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons mustard
- 2 teaspoons chili paste

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the pork loin:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This will ensure even baking and perfect browning.
- Wash the pork loin well under cold water and dry it with a kitchen towel. It is essential for the meat to be dry to achieve a beautiful crust.
- Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts in the loin in both directions, forming a cross pattern. These slits will allow the flavors to penetrate better into the meat.
- In each slit, place a thin slice of garlic. The garlic will infuse the meat with an intense and savory flavor.

2. Seasoning:
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the entire surface of the loin, ensuring that every part is evenly covered. These spices are essential to highlight the flavor of the meat.
- Add dried sage, which will bring a delicate aroma and perfectly complement the taste of the meat.
- Drizzle the loin with olive oil, making sure it is evenly distributed.

3. Baking the loin:
- Place the loin in a baking dish and put it in the oven for about 20 minutes. This time will help seal the juices in the meat, keeping it juicy.
- After 20 minutes, brush the loin with the tomato sauce, which will add a note of acidity and help create a delicious crust. Continue baking for another 20-30 minutes until the meat is golden brown and beautifully caramelized.

4. Preparing the potato garnish:
- Meanwhile, peel the potatoes, wash them well, and slice them thinly. This cutting method will help the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy.
- In a large bowl, mix the potato slices with olive oil, mustard, chili paste, salt, pepper, and oregano. Use your hands to ensure each slice is well coated with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the potatoes in a baking dish, making sure they do not overlap, to achieve even browning. Bake them at the same time as the loin, for about 30-40 minutes, until they become golden and crispy.

5. Serving:
- Once the pork loin is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is juicy.
- Serve the sliced loin alongside the crispy potatoes, garnishing the plate with a few fresh sage leaves for a special touch.

Practical tips:
- If you want a spicy note, you can add a few slices of chili pepper between the slits of the loin.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, according to your preferences.
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add some olives or capers to the tomato sauce to diversify the taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Stuffed pork loin is an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and supporting the immune system. Potatoes, on the other hand, are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Of course! The recipe can be adapted with chicken, but the baking time will be shorter.

- What wine pairs best with this dish?
A dry red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the meat.

- How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat the meat in the oven or in a pan to keep it juicy.

Stuffed pork loin with crispy potato garnish is undoubtedly a dish that will bring joy to your table. A combination of flavors and textures, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also the desire to share special moments with loved ones. Don't forget to enjoy every step of preparing this recipe, turning cooking into a true art!