Pork belly in bacon
Pork Leg Wrapped in Bacon with Potatoes and Garlic Recipe: A Delicacy for All Occasions
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Discover a delicious recipe that will turn any meal into an unforgettable feast! Pork leg wrapped in bacon, accompanied by delicious potatoes and aromatic garlic, is a perfect choice for a special dinner or a gathering with friends. This dish is not only tasty but also rich in history, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures.
Ingredients:
- 1 piece of pork leg (about 850 g)
- 1/2 head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 150 g thinly sliced bacon
- 1 glass of white wine (about 150 ml)
- Potatoes (as desired, for garnish)
Useful and Practical:
- Type of meat: Pork leg is an excellent choice due to its fat content, which contributes to the juiciness of the dish. Choose a piece with a good balance of meat and fat for the best results.
- The wine: Choose a dry white wine, which will add a note of acidity and help tenderize the meat.
- The bacon: Using bacon not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat moist during baking. If you prefer a lighter option, you can opt for turkey bacon.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork leg under cold running water. Use a sharp knife to remove any skin and excess fat. Well-cleaned meat will allow the spices to penetrate better.
2. Creating the emulsion: Take a medium bowl and add the crushed garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste, then pour in the two tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until you obtain a smooth emulsion. This emulsion will add an incredibly savory layer of flavor to the pork leg.
3. Seasoning the meat: Using your hands, rub the pork leg with the garlic emulsion, massaging it well on all sides. Then, in a small bowl, combine the basil, thyme, oregano, and chili. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the meat, ensuring that each portion is well covered.
4. Wrapping in bacon: Take the slices of bacon and start wrapping the pork leg, making sure each part is well covered. This will not only add flavor but also protect the meat from drying out during baking. Once finished, tie the leg with kitchen twine to maintain its shape.
5. Preparing the baking dish: In a heatproof dish, place some peeled and halved or quartered potatoes, depending on your preference. Cut the head of garlic in half, leaving the skin intact, and add it to the dish. Place the pork leg in the center, pour the white wine around, and sprinkle a little chili and thyme over the potatoes.
6. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (or a lid) and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 30-40 minutes. The cover will help retain moisture and allow the ingredients to combine perfectly.
7. Browning: After 30-40 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the bacon becomes crispy and the pork leg is nicely browned. Using the foil at the beginning ensures tender meat, while the final browning provides an irresistible texture.
8. Serving: Once the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes. Remove the twine and cut the pork leg into thick slices. Serve alongside the potatoes from the dish and, if desired, a yogurt sauce or a fresh summer salad to complete this feast.
Useful Tips:
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to the baking dish for added flavor and nutrients.
- Sauces: A sweet mustard sauce or a spicy tomato sauce pairs excellently with this dish. Draw inspiration from your preferences and experiment!
- Drink pairings: This dish pairs perfectly with a full-bodied red wine or a craft beer, which will add depth to the flavors of the meat.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 650 kcal
- Protein: 45 g
- Fat: 45 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, but the baking time will be different! Chicken cooks faster, so check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- How can I make the recipe healthier? Use less bacon or replace it with lean ham. You can also add fresh vegetables to the garnish to increase fiber intake.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, the pork leg can be seasoned a day ahead and left to marinate in the fridge to intensify the flavors.
With this recipe, you will surely impress anyone! Treat yourself and your loved ones to a savory meal full of flavors and textures. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and the delicious result you will achieve!
Ingredients: 1 piece of pork shoulder (850 g) 1/2 head of garlic 2 tablespoons of oil basil, thyme, oregano hot chili salt and pepper 150 g sliced bacon 1 glass of white wine
