Oven-baked nape

Oven-baked pork neck is a recipe that brings intense flavors and a juicy texture to your table, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to make, ideal for those looking to venture into the art of cooking without needing complicated techniques.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marination time: 3 hours
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 4 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 5 slices of pork neck
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 small onions
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 100 ml beer (choose a light or dark beer according to your preference)
- 100 ml water
- 1 magic bag for chicken and pork roasting with wine
- salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the onion and chopping it finely. You can use a sharp knife to achieve uniform cubes. This will not only enhance the final appearance of the dish but also allow for even cooking.

The tomatoes should be well ripened, as they will significantly contribute to the final sauce. Slice them thinly so they blend perfectly with the onion and provide a fresh and aromatic taste.

Marinating the meat:
Wash the pork neck slices under cold running water and dry them well with a kitchen towel. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust in the oven. Place them in a deep tray or a glass container.

On top of the neck, add the chopped onion and sliced tomatoes. Then, pour in the olive oil, water, and beer. The beer not only adds a special flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Make sure all ingredients are well distributed. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and leave it in the refrigerator for about 3 hours. This marinating will intensify the flavors and make the meat juicier.

Baking:
After the 3 hours of marination, preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Remove the tray from the refrigerator and take off the aluminum foil. If you have a magic bag, place the neck in it, adding all the ingredients from the tray. Seal the bag well according to the instructions on the packaging.

Put the bag in the tray and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This step will allow the meat to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the marinade. At the end, about 15 minutes before the baking time is up, you can open the bag to allow a delicious crust to form.

Serving:
Once the neck is ready, carefully remove the bag (watch out for steam) and place the slices on a platter. You can serve them with a side of boiled potatoes, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the meat. Pickles are an excellent choice to add a crunchy and tangy contrast.

Practical tips:
- For an extra flavor, add spices like rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
- If you want a spicier version, you can add a little cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- You can replace the beer with wine if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, but beer brings a unique taste that is hard to replicate.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork neck is a good source of protein, essential for muscle development and regeneration. Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fatty acids and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork neck? Yes, but the cooking time will be significantly reduced, so check the meat every 30 minutes.
- What other side dishes can I serve? A fresh green salad, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables are all excellent options.

A recipe for oven-baked pork neck is not only a delicious dish but also a pleasant cooking experience that brings the family to the table. Let yourself be carried away by its aromas and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 5 slices of neck, 2 tomatoes, 2 smaller onions, 100 ml beer, 100 ml water, 100 ml olive oil, 1 magic bag for chicken and pork roast with wine.