Pork roll with vegetables (boiled in brine)

Pork Roll with Vegetables Boiled in Cabbage Juice

I propose a delicious and comforting recipe: pork roll with vegetables boiled in cabbage juice. This dish is perfect for festive meals, as well as for a family dinner, offering a savory taste and a texture that harmoniously combines juicy meat with fresh vegetables. The pork roll is a traditional recipe that has been perfected over time, becoming a symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing beautiful moments with loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total: 3 hours
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg pork meat (preferably from the belly)
- 250 g minced meat (pork or a mix)
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 150 g mushrooms, chopped
- 1 boiled carrot, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ½ green bell pepper, diced
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- 250 ml cabbage juice
- 2 l water
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
- 3 cardamom seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 50 ml oil

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork meat well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Use a sharp knife to cut the meat into a thin and large enough piece so that you can form the roll. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the meat, helping it become even more tender.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and ground pepper over the entire surface of the pounded meat, ensuring it is evenly coated. These simple yet essential spices will enhance the flavor of the roll.

3. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the minced meat with the chopped red onion and chopped mushrooms. Add the diced carrot and bell peppers, as well as salt and pepper to taste. This rich filling will add extra flavor to the roll.

4. Assembling the roll: On the piece of meat, evenly spread the minced meat mixture, ensuring it reaches every corner. Then, sprinkle the diced carrot and bell peppers. Carefully roll the meat, making sure to form a uniform roll. Use kitchen twine to tie the ends of the roll and along the way, so the filling does not spill out during cooking.

5. Boiling the roll: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water, cabbage juice, whole peppercorns, cardamom seeds, and thyme. Place the roll in the water and let it boil over medium heat for 90 minutes. This boiling process will make the meat extremely tender and flavorful.

6. Baking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a high-sided baking tray, pour the oil and place the boiled roll. Add 500 ml of the broth in which the roll was boiled. Cover the tray with baking paper and put it in the oven for 1 hour. The paper will help maintain moisture.

7. Browning the roll: After an hour, remove the baking paper and leave the roll in the oven for another 30 minutes, during which you should baste the roll with the broth from the tray five times. This step will allow the roll to develop a golden and appetizing crust.

8. Serving: The roll can be served both warm, alongside your favorite side dish (mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables), and cold, sliced, ideal for a savory appetizer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley for an elegant appearance.

Practical tips:

- Make sure the meat is of high quality to achieve a tender and juicy roll.
- You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini or peas, to vary the taste.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can replace part of the cabbage juice with white wine.

Nutritional benefits:

Pork meat is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as zinc and iron. The added vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also increase the fiber and essential nutrient content. This recipe is a balanced option, perfect for a hearty meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use beef instead of pork?
- Yes, you can adapt the recipe using beef, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I store the roll?
- The roll can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

3. What can I serve with the roll?
- The pork roll pairs perfectly with mustard sauce, fresh salad, or baked potatoes.

This pork roll recipe with vegetables boiled in cabbage juice is not just a simple meal, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Don't hesitate to prepare it and enjoy the moments spent around the table!

 Ingredients: 1 piece of pork belly, about 1 kg 250 g minced meat 1/2 red onion 150 g mushrooms 1 boiled carrot 1/2 red bell pepper 1/2 green bell pepper salt ground pepper 250 ml cabbage juice 2 l water 1 tsp mixed peppercorns 3 cardamom seeds 1 tsp dried thyme 50 ml oil