Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork

Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork Recipe

Region / culture: Puerto Rico | Servings: 6

Introduction

Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork is a flavorful and traditional dish that is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. The combination of seasonings and slow roasting creates a tender and juicy ham shank that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe has its roots in Puerto Rican cuisine, where pork is a staple meat in many dishes. The blend of spices and herbs used in this recipe reflects the influence of Spanish, African, and Taino cultures on Puerto Rican cooking.

Ingredients

ham shank
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp minced fresh garlic
1.5 tsp oregano leaves, crumbled fine
1 tsp salt
0.75 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp pepper
2 large baking potatoes, scrubbed, cut lengthwise into 8 wedges
1 large red onion, cut into 8 wedges
1 yellow summer squash, cut into 1-inch slices

How to prepare

In a small bowl, stir the seasoning mixture until blended, then set it aside.
Using a sharp knife, score a diamond pattern in the ham shank, almost reaching the meat.
Brush the entire ham shank with the seasoning mixture.
Place the ham shank on a rack in a roasting pan and cover it with plastic wrap.
Allow the ham to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Remove the plastic wrap from the ham and roast it for 2 hours.
Add the potatoes and onion wedges to the roasting pan, then brush them with the drippings.
Continue roasting for 1 hour.
Add the squash to the roasting pan, brush it with the drippings, and continue roasting for 45 minutes (the meat should roast for a total of 35 minutes per pound) or until done and the vegetables are tender.
Allow the meat to stand for 15 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy!

Variations

Substitute the ham shank with pork shoulder or loin for a different flavor.
Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or tomatoes to the roasting pan.
Experiment with different seasonings such as adobo seasoning, sofrito, or achiote paste for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to score the ham shank to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

- Marinating the ham shank for at least 4 hours or overnight will enhance the flavor.

- Basting the vegetables with the drippings from the ham will add extra flavor and moisture.

- Let the meat rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork with a side of rice and beans, plantains, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The slow roasting method used in this recipe allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. Make sure to baste the meat and vegetables with the drippings to keep them moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have a ham shank, you can use pork shoulder or loin as a substitute. You can also use different vegetables such as sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers in place of the ones listed in the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the ham shank in the seasoning mixture the night before to save time on the day of cooking. You can also prepare the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to roast.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork on a platter with the roasted vegetables arranged around the sliced meat. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a glass of red wine such as a Malbec or Merlot. You can also serve it with a cold beer or a tropical fruit juice for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meat and vegetables in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and vitamin C, while being moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a well-rounded meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or family meal. The blend of seasonings and slow roasting method creates a tender and juicy ham shank that is sure to impress your guests. Serve with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen in Puerto Rico. The air was filled with the mouth-watering aroma of spices and herbs, and I couldn't help but be drawn to the stove where she was preparing a traditional Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork.

Maria had learned the recipe from her mother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own unique twist to it. As I watched Maria carefully season the pork with a blend of garlic, oregano, cumin, and other secret ingredients, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I asked Maria if she would teach me her family's recipe, and she agreed with a smile. She handed me a pen and a piece of paper and began to dictate the ingredients and instructions to me. I scribbled furiously, trying to keep up with her fast-paced speech and intricate directions.

The key to making the perfect Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork, Maria explained, was in the marinade. It had to be flavorful and complex, with just the right balance of spices and herbs. She showed me how to pierce the pork with a knife to allow the marinade to penetrate deep into the meat, ensuring that every bite would be bursting with flavor.

As the pork marinated in the fridge, Maria shared stories of her childhood in Puerto Rico, of family gatherings and feasts where this roast pork was always the star of the show. I could see the love and pride in her eyes as she talked about her heritage and the traditions that had been passed down through the generations.

When it was time to cook the pork, Maria showed me how to sear it in a hot pan to lock in the juices, then transfer it to the oven to roast slowly until it was tender and succulent. The aromas that filled her kitchen were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. Maria pulled the roast pork out of the oven and sliced into it, revealing perfectly cooked, juicy meat that practically melted in my mouth. The flavors were bold and vibrant, a symphony of garlic, citrus, and spices that danced on my taste buds.

As I savored each bite, I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe. The Puerto Rican-style Roast Pork was a dish that spoke to me on a deep and personal level, connecting me to Maria's heritage and the rich culinary traditions of Puerto Rico.

Since that day, I have made this recipe countless times, tweaking it and adding my own touches to make it my own. But no matter how many times I make it, the memories of that summer day in Maria's kitchen will always be with me, inspiring me to keep cooking and sharing the flavors of Puerto Rico with those I love.