Porchetta Romana

Porchetta Romana is a succulent and aromatic rolled pork dish, seasoned with herbs and spices, that captures the essence of Italian barbecue. This Kosher version substitutes traditional ingredients while maintaining the rich flavors and crispy skin that make it irresistible.

Ingredients

• Pork belly - 500 grams
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Fennel seeds - 1 tablespoon, crushed
• Fresh rosemary - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Fresh thyme - 1 tablespoon, chopped
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon zest - from 1 lemon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes - 1/2 teaspoon
• Butcher's twine - for tying

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. In a bowl, combine minced garlic, crushed fennel seeds, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, olive oil, lemon zest, paprika, and red pepper flakes to create a marinade.
3. Lay the pork belly skin-side down on a clean surface and score the meat with shallow cuts to help the marinade penetrate.
4. Rub the marinade all over the pork belly, ensuring it gets into the cuts and on all surfaces. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer in the refrigerator.
5. Roll the pork belly tightly from one end to the other, creating a log shape. Secure it with butcher's twine at regular intervals to hold its shape.
6. Place the rolled pork belly on a roasting rack in a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
7. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C (430°F) and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
9. Serve warm with your choice of sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

• Calories: 720
• Protein: 62 g
• Carbs: 1 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Total Fat: 50 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals from herbs like rosemary and thyme.

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