Oven-baked neck with potatoes and garlic

Delicious oven-baked pork neck recipe with potatoes and garlic

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe history
Oven-baked pork neck is a classic dish, appreciated in many cultures for its juicy texture and rich flavor. This recipe perfectly combines the aroma of pork with the savor of potatoes and garlic, creating a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for family meals or special occasions. Over time, pork neck has gained various variations, but its essence remains unchanged: a tender meat, slow-cooked to retain its juiciness.

Ingredients

- 2 pieces of pork neck (approximately 800 g)
- 2 large potatoes (approximately 500 g)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried dill
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of water (approximately 250 ml)

Ingredient details
- Pork neck: Choose a piece of fresh meat with a layer of fat, as this will add juiciness and flavor to the dish. The fat will melt during cooking, providing a delicious roast.
- Potatoes: Opt for cooking potatoes that hold up well in the oven and become golden and crispy.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic for an intense flavor. Garlic adds not only aroma but also health benefits, being known for its antimicrobial properties.

Step by step for a successful recipe

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork neck well under a stream of cold water. Then, dry it with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust during cooking.

2. Seasoning: Rub the pork neck with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried dill, and sweet paprika on both sides. These spices will give the meat a special flavor. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes to intensify the flavors.

3. Cooking the meat: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pork neck in an oven-safe dish or a heat-resistant pan. Put it in the oven and let it cook for 25-30 minutes. Once browned on one side, turn it over and add the cup of water to the dish. This will help maintain moisture and create a delicious sauce around the meat.

4. Preparing the potatoes: Meanwhile, peel and wash the potatoes. Cut them into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Boil them in salted water for about 10-15 minutes until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked.

5. Baking the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and place them in a separate dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried dill. Mix well to evenly coat with spices. Place them in the preheated oven along with the pork neck and bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finalizing the dish: Check if the pork neck is fully cooked using a cooking thermometer; the internal temperature should be 70°C. The potatoes should be golden and crispy. When both are ready, remove them from the oven.

7. Serving: Slice the pork neck thinly and serve it alongside the crispy potatoes. For an extra fresh touch, add a few diced fresh tomatoes on top.

Useful tips
- If you want to achieve an even crispier crust, you can turn on the grill function of the oven in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
- Replace the potatoes with vegetables like carrots or zucchini for a healthier option.
- For an even more intense flavor, add a few whole cloves of garlic to the dish alongside the neck, which will caramelize and add flavor.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! This recipe can also be adapted for chicken or beef. Cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat used.

2. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides potatoes, you can opt for a light green salad, pea puree, or grilled vegetables.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven to restore their texture.

4. What drinks can be paired with this dish?
This roast pairs wonderfully with a dry red wine, but also with a pale beer, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of pork neck with potatoes contains approximately 600-700 kcal, depending on the amount of oil used. This recipe is rich in proteins, B vitamins, and minerals, providing a balanced meal, but should be consumed in moderation due to its fat content.

Variations of the recipe
- Add spices like rosemary or oregano for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Experiment with different types of oil, such as avocado or nut oil, to add a distinct taste.
- Replace the potatoes with quinoa or rice to create a lighter and healthier dish.

This oven-baked pork neck recipe with potatoes and garlic is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to gather your family around the table. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent together! Bon appétit!