Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange

Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange is a classic and elegant dish that is perfect for special occasions and holiday gatherings. The combination of tender pork roast and flavorful orange-infused rice makes for a delicious and impressive meal that will surely impress your guests.

History

The crown roast of pork has been a popular dish for centuries, often served at royal banquets and special events. The tradition of serving a crown roast of pork dates back to medieval times when it was a symbol of wealth and prosperity. The addition of rice d'orange, a French-inspired dish made with orange juice and raisins, adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic recipe.

Ingredients

1 crown roast of pork, 16 ribs
3 tsp salt, divided
0.25 tsp ground red pepper
1 cup chopped onion
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 tsp ground thyme
0.5 cup seedless raisins
0.5 cup orange juice
0.25 cup dry sherry
6 cups hot cooked rice (cooked in chicken broth)
2 tbsp grated orange peel, divided
2 oranges, peeled and sectioned

How to prepare

Have the butcher prepare a crown roast. Season the inside and outside with 1.5 tsp of salt and pepper.
Place the roast in a shallow pan with the ribs facing down.
Roast at 325°F, basting occasionally, for approximately 2.5 hours or until the meat at the center registers 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
Meanwhile, cook the onion in butter until it is soft but not browned.
Add the remaining 1.5 tsp of salt, thyme, raisins, orange juice, and sherry.
Cover and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes or until the raisins are plump.
Stir in the rice and 1 tbsp of orange peel, tossing lightly to blend well.
About 15 minutes before the meat is done, remove it from the oven.
Pour off the pan juices and reserve them to make gravy, if desired.
Turn the roast with the rib ends facing up. Fill the center with the orange rice.
Spoon the remaining rice around the roast.
Cover with foil to prevent the rice from drying out and return to the oven until the meat is fully cooked.
Sprinkle with the remaining 1 tbsp of orange peel and garnish with orange sections before serving.

Variations

Substitute the pork roast with a boneless pork loin for a leaner option.
Add chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the rice d'orange for extra flavor and texture.
Use different citrus fruits, such as lemon or grapefruit, in place of the orange for a unique twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the pork roast generously with salt and pepper before roasting to enhance the flavor of the meat.

- Basting the roast occasionally while cooking will help keep it moist and tender.

- Cooking the rice d'orange separately and then filling the center of the roast with it ensures that the rice stays fluffy and flavorful.

- Garnishing the dish with fresh orange sections adds a pop of color and freshness to the presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal. Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling cider for a festive touch.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the pork roast at a low temperature ensures that it cooks evenly and stays tender and juicy.

- Cooking the rice d'orange separately and then filling the center of the roast with it helps prevent the rice from becoming soggy or overcooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken broth or vegetable broth in place of the dry sherry for a non-alcoholic option.

- Substitute dried apricots or prunes for the raisins in the rice d'orange for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The pork roast can be seasoned and refrigerated overnight before roasting to allow the flavors to develop.

- The rice d'orange can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving to save time on the day of the meal.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of color and freshness. - Serve the Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange on a large platter with the orange sections arranged around the roast for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a complete and balanced meal.

- Serve with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for a delicious and festive pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the pork roast in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, and reheat the rice d'orange in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange contains approximately 450 calories. This dish is a satisfying and hearty meal that is perfect for special occasions and holiday gatherings.

Carbohydrates

The rice d'orange in this recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates, with approximately 30 grams per serving. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your day.

Fats

The pork roast in this recipe contains a moderate amount of fat, with approximately 15 grams per serving. While it is important to consume fats in moderation, they are essential for overall health and can add flavor and richness to dishes.

Proteins

The pork roast in this recipe is a good source of protein, with approximately 25 grams per serving. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

The orange juice and orange peel in this recipe provide a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and overall health. Additionally, the pork roast contains iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and metabolism.

Alergens

This recipe contains pork, butter, and raisins, which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for special occasions and holiday gatherings.

Summary

Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange is a classic and elegant dish that is perfect for special occasions and holiday gatherings. The tender pork roast and flavorful orange-infused rice come together to create a delicious and impressive meal that will surely impress your guests. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a satisfying and hearty option for any festive occasion. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad, and pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling cider for a festive touch. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Crown Roast of Pork with Rice D'Orange. It was a warm summer day, and I was strolling through the bustling streets of a small French village. The aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces filled the air, enticing me to wander into a quaint little bistro.

As I settled into a cozy table by the window, I couldn't help but notice the elegant dish being served to the table next to me. It was a magnificent crown roast of pork, perfectly cooked and garnished with vibrant orange slices. The scent of the dish was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist asking the waiter for the recipe.

To my surprise, the waiter informed me that the recipe was a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations of chefs in the village. However, he kindly offered to arrange a private cooking lesson with the head chef, who was willing to share his knowledge with me.

I eagerly accepted the offer and found myself in the bustling kitchen of the bistro the following day. The head chef, a wise old man with a twinkle in his eye, welcomed me warmly and began to guide me through the intricate process of preparing the crown roast of pork.

We started by selecting the best cuts of pork from the local butcher, ensuring that each piece was tender and succulent. The chef then demonstrated how to season the meat with a blend of herbs and spices, including rosemary, thyme, and garlic.

As the pork roasted in the oven, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, the chef turned his attention to the rice d'orange. He explained that the dish was a perfect accompaniment to the rich flavors of the pork, combining the sweetness of oranges with the earthy notes of wild rice.

Together, we cooked the rice in a fragrant broth infused with orange juice and zest, allowing the flavors to meld together in a harmonious symphony. The chef's skilled hands moved with precision as he plated the dish, arranging the crown roast of pork on a bed of fluffy rice d'orange.

With a flourish, he presented the dish to me, a masterpiece of culinary art that I couldn't wait to taste. The first bite was a revelation, the tender pork melting in my mouth and the citrus-infused rice adding a burst of freshness to each bite.

As I savored the flavors of the crown roast of pork with rice d'orange, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. The chef's generosity in sharing his knowledge with me had sparked a newfound passion for French cuisine, inspiring me to explore new flavors and techniques in my own kitchen.

Years passed, and I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to create a dish that was uniquely my own. Each time I prepared the crown roast of pork with rice d'orange, I was transported back to that bustling kitchen in the French village, where I had first discovered the magic of this exquisite dish.

Now, as I sit at my kitchen table, surrounded by the tantalizing scents of herbs and spices, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. The recipe for crown roast of pork with rice d'orange is more than just a dish - it is a testament to the joy of sharing food and memories with loved ones, a tradition that I will continue to pass down for generations to come.