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### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasted Pork Neck with Garlic and Orange Potatoes**
This recipe may seem a bit elaborate, but it’s actually relatively simple to prepare. The key is to take your time to let the flavors develop as the pork and potatoes roast to perfection. Here’s how to make this delicious dish:
#### **1. Prepare the Pork Neck**
Start by prepping your pork neck. If you’re using a bone-in cut, make sure the skin is scored (this will help the fat render and make the skin crispy). If your pork neck is boneless, you can skip this step.
– **Seasoning the Pork**: In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork neck, making sure it’s evenly coated.
– **Orange Zest**: Zest the orange directly into the seasoning mixture for an aromatic citrus note. You can also set aside some zest for garnishing at the end.
– **Searing the Pork**: Heat a large, oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and sear the pork neck on all sides until it’s golden brown and crispy (about 4-5 minutes per side). This step helps lock in the flavors and ensures the pork develops a delicious crust.
#### **2. Roasting the Pork Neck**
Once the pork is seared, it’s time to move it to the oven.
– **Deglaze the Pan**: Add a cup of white wine or chicken broth to the pan to deglaze it, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
– **Roasting**: Pour in the juice from the orange (about 1/4 cup), then transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Roast the pork for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) for fall-apart tender meat.
– **Basting**: Every 30 minutes, spoon some of the pan juices over the pork to keep it moist and enhance the flavor. If the pan starts to dry out, you can add a little more broth or wine.
#### **3. Preparing the Garlic and Orange Potatoes**
While the pork is roasting, you can prepare the potatoes.
– **Prepping the Potatoes**: Wash and peel the potatoes (if desired), then cut them into uniform pieces, about 1 to 2-inch cubes.
– **Seasoning the Potatoes**: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, orange juice, orange zest, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
– **Roasting the Potatoes**: Transfer the seasoned potatoes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly. Place them in the oven alongside the pork for the last 45-60 minutes of roasting. Turn them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they become golden and crispy on all sides.
#### **4. Finishing the Dish**
Once the pork is roasted and the potatoes are crispy and tender, it’s time to bring everything together.
– **Rest the Pork**: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
– **Finishing the Potatoes**: If you want to add a bit of extra richness, toss the roasted potatoes with a tablespoon of butter once they come out of the oven.
#### **5. Serve and Enjoy!**
To serve, carve the pork neck into slices, and arrange it on a platter alongside the roasted garlic and orange potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley, orange zest, or slices of orange for a colorful, zesty finish. The result is a visually appealing, aromatic dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying meal.
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### **Tips for Perfect Roasted Pork Neck and Garlic-Orange Potatoes**
– **Choose the Right Cut of Pork**: While pork neck is an excellent choice for roasting, you can also use other cuts like pork shoulder or tenderloin if you prefer. The key is to select a cut that has enough fat to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
– **Slow and Steady Roasting**: Roasting the pork at a low temperature for a longer period of time allows the meat to become tender and juicy. The goal is to cook the pork low and slow so that the fat renders and the meat becomes tender enough to fall apart with a fork.
– **Make Extra Potatoes**: The garlic and orange potatoes are so flavorful that you’ll likely want to make more than you need. They can be served as a side dish for the next day or used in a salad.
– **Add More Vegetables**: If you want to make the dish even heartier, consider adding vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts to the roasting pan with the pork. These vegetables will absorb the flavors of the garlic, orange, and pork drippings.
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### **Conclusion: A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal**
Roasted pork neck with garlic and orange potatoes is a meal that brings together savory, citrusy, and aromatic flavors in perfect harmony. The tender, juicy pork neck paired with the zesty and fragrant potatoes creates a dish that is both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re preparing it for a special family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
By following this recipe and taking the time to let the flavors meld, you’ll create a meal that’s both simple and elevated, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious feast and the joy it brings to your table!
