My family tried this oven-baked pork for the first time, and it was an absolute hit! This recipe combines tender, flavorful pork with perfectly seasoned potatoes, making it a satisfying and comforting meal. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pork:
- 1 kg of pork
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for greasing)
- 2 potatoes, chopped
- Salt, black pepper, paprika (to taste)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian herbs
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (for seasoning)
For the Potatoes:
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- Water (for boiling)
- 30g melted butter
- 20 ml vegetable oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Dry garlic (to taste)
- Oregano (to taste)
- Grated cheese (for sprinkling)
- A little dill, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Pork
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare the Meat: Chop 1 onion and 2 potatoes. In a bowl, combine the chopped onion, potatoes, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix well with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Season the Pork: In another bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of Italian herbs, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Thoroughly coat the pork with this spice mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lubricate the baking mold with vegetable oil and place the seasoned pork inside. Spread the onion and potato mixture around the pork.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with wet parchment paper and then with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil Potatoes: Peel and cut 4 potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes from the moment of boiling.
- Season and Bake: Drain the potatoes and brush them with a mixture of 30 grams of melted butter and 20 ml of vegetable oil. Season with salt, dry garlic, and oregano to taste. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 45 minutes.
Finish the Dish
- Remove Foil: After the pork has baked for 1 hour, remove the foil and parchment. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes to allow the meat to brown.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese over the pork and potatoes. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish: Once done, sprinkle chopped dill over the dish for a fresh, herbal touch.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this delicious meal, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Pot (for boiling potatoes)
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Foil and parchment paper
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the onion and potato mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices like cumin, rosemary, or thyme to suit your taste preferences.
- Cheese Options: Use different types of cheese like mozzarella, Gouda, or a cheese blend for variety.
- Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have dill, try garnishing with parsley or chives.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pork and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork shoulder or loin. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness and type of cut.
How do I keep the pork from drying out?
Covering the pork with wet parchment and foil helps retain moisture. Make sure not to overbake it and let it rest before slicing.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork and potatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven before serving. The flavors will meld even more, making the dish even tastier.
What can I serve with this dish?
This pork and potato dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of crusty bread.
Conclusion
This Italian-inspired oven-baked pork with seasoned potatoes is a must-try recipe that will impress your family and friends. The tender pork, flavorful spices, and crispy potatoes make for a perfect meal. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.