Roast Pork with Prunes Recipe
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork Loin | 6 kg |
| Dried Prunes | 320 g |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Juniper Berries | 3 berries |
| Rosé Wine | 500 ml |
| Sage | to taste |
| Rosemary | to taste |
| Fine Salt | to taste |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
| Cornstarch (Maizena) | 7 g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | to taste |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin and Prunes
Start by finely chopping the aromatic herbs, including sage and rosemary, which will infuse the roast with their rich flavors. Using a long, sharp knife, make a central incision along the entire length of the pork loin, ensuring you create a pocket that runs through the meat. You want to cut from one end of the loin to the other, but be careful not to cut all the way through. Create a space that will allow you to stuff it. Once the hole is made, gently widen the cuts at the ends of the incision. Begin stuffing the prunes into the opening, one by one, making sure to cover the entire surface of the pork. This adds a lovely sweetness and moisture to the meat during roasting.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
In a large skillet, pour in some extra virgin olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the garlic cloves, keeping their skins on, along with the juniper berries. Sauté for a minute to release the aromas. Now, carefully place the stuffed pork loin in the pan and sear it on all sides. This step is important to lock in the flavors and create a beautifully browned crust. Turn the roast to ensure it’s evenly browned on all sides.
Step 3: Transfer to the Oven
Once the pork is seared, transfer it to a baking dish. Season the meat generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set the pan aside for the moment, and pour the rosé wine into the same skillet where the pork was seared. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two to deglaze the pan, picking up all the flavorful bits that were left from the searing process.
Step 4: Add Herbs and Bake
Next, add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and sage to the pan. Pour this aromatic mixture over the pork loin in the baking dish. Now it’s time to cook the roast. Place the dish in a preheated static oven at 180°C (350°F). Let it roast for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 69-70°C (155-160°F) when checked with a meat thermometer. The roast should be tender and juicy, with a slightly pink center.
Step 5: Rest and Prepare the Sauce
Once the roast has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. While the meat is resting, strain the wine sauce through a fine sieve to remove the solid bits, transferring the liquid into a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. If you want to thicken it slightly, mix in the cornstarch (maizena) with a little water and whisk it into the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Once the pork has rested, slice it into thick, juicy pieces. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and pour the rich, flavorful wine sauce over the top. Serve the roast pork with the prunes alongside, letting the sweetness of the prunes complement the savory depth of the roast. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tips:
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can marinate the pork with herbs and wine overnight before roasting.
- Ensure the pork reaches the right internal temperature to guarantee it’s cooked to perfection, juicy and tender.
- You can add a little more cornstarch to the sauce if you like a thicker consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
This roast pork with prunes is a delightful dish perfect for family gatherings or a special occasion. The savory pork combined with the sweetness of the prunes and the aromatic wine sauce creates a flavor-packed meal that is both satisfying and elegant.
