Pork with lemon

Delicious Recipe: Pork Neck with Lemon Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Pork neck is an excellent choice for family meals, and this simple and flavorful lemon recipe will add a touch of aroma and freshness. The lemon not only enhances the taste but also helps tenderize the meat, transforming each bite into an unforgettable culinary experience. Additionally, the dish is easy to make, perfect for days when you want to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 700-800 g pork neck
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 large onion
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 6-7 potatoes
- 200 ml water
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Wash the pork neck well and cut it into thick slices (about 2-3 cm). This thickness will ensure even cooking and retain the juiciness of the meat.

2. Marinating: Place the meat slices in a baking dish. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the meat. This step is essential to intensify the flavors.

3. Adding vegetables: Cut the onion into julienne (thin strips) and slice the garlic. Spread them evenly over the meat. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also contribute to a delicious sauce.

4. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into larger pieces, ensuring they are of similar size for even cooking. Arrange them around the meat in the baking dish.

5. Creating the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the water with the juice of one lemon. This combination will add a pleasant acidity that will help tenderize the meat. Pour the mixture over the meat and potatoes.

6. Adding thyme: Place the sprigs of fresh thyme on top of the dish. Thyme is an aromatic herb that pairs wonderfully with pork, adding an extra layer of flavor.

7. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 160°C (low heat). Let it bake for about 1 hour. This time will allow the meat to tenderize and absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

8. Browning: After the first hour, remove the aluminum foil and increase the temperature to 200°C (medium heat). Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the meat is beautifully browned.

9. Finishing touches: With 5 minutes left before removing the dish from the oven, add the grated lemon zest. This will intensify the lemon aroma and add a pleasant look to the dish.

10. Serving: Serve the pork neck hot, alongside the roasted potatoes, a serving of polenta, and garlic sauce. This combination is perfect for adding flavor and tradition to your meal.

Practical tips:

- Ingredients: Choose quality pork, preferably from a trusted butcher. The neck is a fattier cut, but this gives it juiciness.

- Serving suggestion: You can add a fresh summer salad with tomatoes and cucumbers to balance the richness of the meat.

- Variations: If you like a spicier taste, you can add a few slices of hot pepper to the mixture. You can also experiment with other herbs, such as rosemary or oregano.

- Frequently asked questions:
- *What else can I serve alongside this dish?* - Polenta is a classic accompaniment, but mashed potatoes or a summer salad are also excellent options.
- *Can I use chicken instead of pork?* - Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter; ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

- Nutritional benefits: Pork neck is a good source of protein and B vitamins, essential for metabolism. Potatoes provide carbohydrates, while garlic and onion bring antioxidants and beneficial compounds for health.

This lemon pork neck recipe is not just a hearty meal but also a wonderful way to bring the family together around the table. The flavors blend harmoniously, and each bite is an explosion of tastes. Enjoy your meal!