One of the joys of cooking is the ability to transform simple ingredients into something comforting and memorable. Pork Neck with Roasted Potatoes is a dish that delivers on both flavor and ease. Tender, flavorful pork neck combined with crispy, seasoned roasted potatoes creates a meal that satisfies the soul. This recipe has stood the test of time in many households, and for good reason. The pork is marinated in a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection, while the potatoes soak up all the savory goodness, turning golden and crisp.
Perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or a hearty weekend meal, this dish is both filling and flavorful, yet simple to prepare. With the richness of the pork and the earthiness of the potatoes, it brings comfort to the table, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, yet gives off the impression of an indulgent, gourmet meal.
What makes this recipe so timeless is its versatility. You can adjust the seasoning and sides based on personal preference, making it as simple or as elaborate as you’d like. The combination of roasted pork and potatoes is always a crowd-pleaser, and this dish continues to be a favorite across generations. It’s not just a meal – it’s a tradition passed down, one that brings families together around the dinner table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- For the Pork Neck:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) pork neck
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh or dried thyme, to taste
- Grill seasoning, or any set of spices to your taste (paprika, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp hot mustard
- 50 ml (1.7 oz) vegetable oil
- For the Roasted Potatoes:
- 2 medium onions, sliced
- 4-5 large raw potatoes, peeled (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable seasoning (optional)
- Potato seasoning (optional, or use a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder)
- Mayonnaise (for coating potatoes)
Steps to Prepare Pork Neck with Roasted Potatoes:
Preparing the Pork Neck:
- Marinate the Pork Neck:
- Start by preparing the pork neck. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step helps ensure the seasoning sticks better to the meat.
- In a bowl, combine salt, thyme, grill seasoning (or any spice blend you prefer), minced garlic, and hot mustard. Add vegetable oil to the mixture to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the pork neck, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. Allow the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes, though a few hours (or overnight in the fridge) will allow the flavors to deepen and permeate the meat.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature will ensure a nice, slow roast, allowing the pork neck to become tender while also developing a crispy, flavorful exterior.
Preparing the Roasted Potatoes:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- While the pork is marinating, wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into medium chunks. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on for extra texture and flavor.
- In a large bowl, toss the potato chunks with a little vegetable oil, salt, and any seasoning you like. Potato seasoning can include garlic powder, paprika, or even dried herbs like rosemary or oregano. Add a spoonful of mayonnaise to help the seasoning stick and create a golden, crispy exterior.
- Prepare the Onions:
- Slice the onions into rings or wedges. The onions will add a savory sweetness to the dish as they roast alongside the pork and potatoes.
Roasting the Pork and Potatoes:
- Roast the Pork:
- Place the marinated pork neck in a roasting pan or on a baking sheet. If you have any remaining marinade, drizzle it over the meat.
- Place the pork in the preheated oven and roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pork is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork should reach at least 70°C (160°F) when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Roast the Potatoes and Onions:
- While the pork is roasting, arrange the seasoned potatoes and sliced onions on a separate baking sheet in a single layer. This allows the potatoes to crisp up evenly.
- Roast the potatoes in the oven for about 40-50 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender inside.
Serving the Dish:
- Final Touches:
- Once both the pork neck and potatoes are fully cooked, remove them from the oven. Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
- Serve the sliced pork neck alongside the roasted potatoes and onions. You can garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra mustard or sauce if you like.
Prep Time:
- Preparation: 15 minutes (for marinating and prepping ingredients)
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes to overnight (for best flavor)
- Roasting Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (combined for both pork and potatoes
Cooking Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including marinating and cooking)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQ:
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, if you don’t have pork neck, you can use pork shoulder or pork loin. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
2. Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the pork a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. You can also prep the potatoes and onions in advance, just make sure to store them in an airtight container until ready to roast.
3. Can I make this dish without mayonnaise?
Yes, mayonnaise is optional. You can simply toss the potatoes in oil and seasoning without the mayo for a slightly different texture.
Tips for Making Pork Neck with Roasted Potatoes:
- Marinate for Longer: For the best flavor, try to marinate the pork for several hours or overnight. This will allow the meat to absorb all the spices, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, use them instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant, aromatic flavor.
- Rest the Pork: Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices and keep the meat moist.
- Customize the Seasoning: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can experiment with different seasoning blends, such as Cajun, Mediterranean, or even a spicy rub for an extra kick.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover pork neck and roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to store leftovers for a longer period, freeze the pork neck and potatoes in separate containers. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warm.
Conclusion:
Pork Neck with Roasted Potatoes is more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of simple, comforting ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dish. The savory, tender pork paired with golden, crispy potatoes is a timeless combination that works for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or preparing it for a festive gathering, this dish never fails to impress.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ease of preparation, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. By adjusting the seasonings to your liking, you can put your own spin on the dish, yet still enjoy the hearty, satisfying flavors that make it so beloved.
In a world filled with complex recipes and fussy techniques, Pork Neck with Roasted Potatoes is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the ones that bring the most joy. Whether it’s the perfect weeknight dinner or a special meal for friends and family, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire for years to come.