Introduction
Summer is a perfect time to enjoy a delicious roast, and what better centerpiece for your gathering than a succulent pork roast with perfectly crispy crackling? This recipe by Jamie Oliver combines simple ingredients and a few key techniques to create a show-stopping dish that will impress family and friends alike. With its stunning crackling and juicy, flavorful meat, this roast is sure to be a hit at your summer gatherings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pork shoulder, 2 kg
Sea salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, 2 tablespoons
Fresh sage leaves, 6
Garlic cloves, 4, peeled and smashed
Lemon, zest of 1
Onion, 1, quartered
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
This roast pork recipe is not just about the food; it’s about creating memories around the dining table. Perfect for summer barbecues or Sunday lunches, it offers a mouthwatering experience that you will want to recreate time and again. Enjoying this dish with seasonal sides like fresh vegetables or a crisp salad can make the meal even more satisfying.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (450°F). Take your joint of pork and place it in a roasting tray. Score the skin in a crisscross pattern with a sharp knife, ensuring not to cut too deep into the meat. This helps in achieving a crispy crackling.
Step 2: Season the Pork
Generously rub salt all over the skin and into the scored cuts. For additional flavor, you can also rub in some olive oil and your choice of herbs and spices to the meat itself.
Step 3: Roast the Pork
Place the pork in the oven and roast it at the high temperature for 30 minutes. This initial blast of heat helps to create a crispy skin.
Step 4: Adjust the Temperature
After the initial 30 minutes, lower the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue to roast the pork for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the joint. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of at least 70°C (160°F).
Step 5: Rest the Meat
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes under a sheet of foil. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Notes
Tip for Crackling
If the crackling is not as crispy as desired after roasting, you can place the pork under a hot grill for a few minutes to enhance the crunchiness. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
This roast pork pairs beautifully with summer sides such as fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy apple sauce.
Leftover Storage
Any leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later use. Use it in sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Pork
Choosing the right cut of pork is essential for a successful roast. Look for a joint with a good layer of fat on top, as this will help create delicious crackling.
Scoring the Skin
To achieve the perfect crackling, score the skin with a sharp knife. Make shallow cuts into the fat without slicing too deep into the meat. This allows heat to penetrate and create crispy skin.
Seasoning
Generously season the pork with salt before roasting. Salt not only enhances flavor but also helps draw moisture out of the skin, contributing to the crackling process.
Roasting Temperature
Start by roasting the pork at a high temperature to initiate crackling, then lower the heat to cook the meat evenly without drying it out.
Basting
Basting the pork with its own juices during roasting can help keep the meat moist and add flavor. Use a baster or spoon to pour the juices over the joint periodically.
Resting the Meat
Allow the pork to rest after cooking to let the juices redistribute. This results in juicier meat and better flavor.
FAQ
What is the best cut of pork for crackling?
Pork belly, shoulder, or leg with a good fat cap on top are the best choices for achieving crispy crackling.
How can I ensure my crackling is crispy?
Ensure the skin is well-scored, seasoned with salt, and roasted at a high temperature initially to help it crisp up.
Can I make crackling in advance?
While it’s best made fresh, you can roast the pork in advance, and re-crisp the crackling in the oven just before serving.
Why is my crackling not crispy?
If the crackling isn’t crispy, it may be due to moisture on the skin, insufficient scoring, or not roasting at a high enough temperature initially.
How can I store leftover crackling?
Store leftover crackling in an airtight container at room temperature. For best results, reheat in the oven to retain crunchiness.
Conclusion
Roasting pork during the summer can be a delightful culinary experience, offering a crispy crackling and succulent meat. This summer roast pork not only highlights the flavors of the season but also brings friends and family together around the table. With the right techniques and seasoning, you can enjoy a tender and flavorful dish that showcases the best of summer’s bounty.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Herb-Crusted Roast Lamb
A perfect alternative for pork, this dish features tender lamb coated in a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, offering a flavorful and aromatic centerpiece.
Stuffed Roasted Chicken
A wonderful combination of juicy chicken filled with a savory stuffing of herbs, vegetables, and breadcrumbs, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Grilled Vegetable Medley
A vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection, ideal for complementing your roast pork while adding a fresh and colorful touch.
Summer Potato Salad
This classic dish features boiled potatoes mixed with fresh herbs, tangy dressing, and seasonal greens, making it a refreshing side for your summer roast.
Peach and Arugula Salad
A sweet and peppery salad combining ripe peaches, peppery arugula, and a light vinaigrette, providing a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the roast pork.
Charred Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn brushed with herb butter, adding a sweet and smoky element to your outdoor feast, perfect alongside a flavorful roast.