Pork steak with vegetables
Pork roast with vegetables and potato dumplings – a savory recipe for unforgettable moments
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Total time: 3 – 3.5 hours
Number of servings: 6
History and story
Pork roast with vegetables is a traditional dish appreciated in many cultures, often associated with festive meals or family gatherings. This recipe combines the rich flavor of pork with the sweetness of vegetables, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. The potato dumplings are a perfect accompaniment, bringing a soft and fluffy texture that complements the roast perfectly.
Ingredient preparation
To achieve the best results, choose high-quality pork with a layer of skin that will become crispy during baking. Here are the necessary ingredients:
- 2 kg pork shoulder with bone and skin (preferably cut into four pieces)
- 3 parsley roots
- 6-7 carrots
- 1 kohlrabi
- 1 small celery
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon cumin (optional, for added flavor)
- 3-4 tablespoons oil
- 1 kg potatoes for dumplings (or mashed potatoes)
Useful tips for ingredients
When choosing the meat, look for a pork shoulder that has a good balance between meat and fat, which will ensure a juicy roast. The vegetables should be fresh, with firm and blemish-free roots. If you want to add a more complex flavor, you can use herbs like rosemary or thyme to season the meat.
Preparation
1. Seasoning the meat: Start by mixing paprika, salt, pepper, and, if desired, cumin in a small bowl. This mixture will give an intense flavor to the roast. Wash the meat well, dry it with a paper towel, and massage the spice mixture on all sides.
2. Preparing the vegetables: Clean the vegetables and cut them into large pieces. They will add not only flavor but also color to the final dish.
3. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meat and sear it for 3-4 minutes on each side until it gets a golden crust. This will help seal in the juices of the meat.
4. Transferring to the pot: Once the meat is seared, transfer it to a large pot. Add the chopped vegetables and pour water into the pot until it reaches a height of about 3 cm. This step will help cook the meat evenly and create a delicious sauce.
5. Baking in the oven: Place a tea bag in the pot with the cumin seeds (if you chose to use them) and cover the pot with a lid. Put the pot in the preheated oven at 200 °C for about 2.5 - 3 hours. This stage will transform the meat into a succulent delicacy, and the vegetables will absorb the flavors.
6. Preparing the dumplings: In the last 30 minutes of cooking the meat, prepare the dumplings. Peel and boil the potatoes until they are soft. Mash them, then mix with an egg and a little salt, forming a soft dough. Shape round dumplings and boil them in salted water. When the water comes to a boil, add the dumplings and let them cook for 2-3 minutes. Turn off the heat and let them sit in the water for another 20 minutes.
7. Achieving desired crispiness: In the last 30 minutes of cooking the meat, remove the lid from the pot to allow the skin to become crispy and delicious. This will add a pleasant contrast of textures.
Serving
To serve, arrange the meat and vegetables on a large platter, with the potato dumplings alongside. A great idea is to add a fresh summer salad or pickles for a contrast of flavors. This dish is perfectly accompanied by a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Nutritional benefits and calories
Pork roast is a rich source of protein and B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced meal. A serving of this roast, along with dumplings, can contain approximately 600-800 calories, depending on size and exact ingredients.
Possible variations
If you want to add a touch of originality, experiment with spices. You can use minced garlic, smoked paprika, or even fresh herbs like rosemary. Instead of dumplings, try mashed potatoes with butter and cream, or add cheese for a creamy texture.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I prepare this recipe with chicken or veal?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken or veal, but the cooking time will be different, so you will need to check the meat for doneness to avoid drying it out.
2. How can I enjoy the leftovers?
Leftover roast is delicious in sandwiches or as a filling for tacos. It can also be added to soups or stews for a quick and tasty meal.
3. Can I use frozen vegetables?
While fresh vegetables offer the best flavor, frozen vegetables can be used in the absence of fresh ones. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the pot.
This pork roast recipe with vegetables and potato dumplings is not just a dish, but a culinary experience full of warmth and flavor. Try it and savor the moments spent with loved ones, enveloped by the inviting aromas of this traditional dish.
Ingredients: 2 kg pork shoulder with bone and skin (I bought it already cut into four pieces 2 kg/4) 3 roots of parsley 6-7 carrots 1 kohlrabi 1 small celery paprika, salt, pepper, cumin a little oil potato paste (potatoes -> mashed potatoes)
