What is Porchetta?
Porchetta is a famous savory pork roast from Italy. It consists of a juicy and tender whole pig, stuffed with a delightful mixture of herbs, garlic, and spices. Traditionally, it is slow-roasted on a spit over wood or charcoal, resulting in crispy and flavorful skin, while the inside remains moist and succulent.
Ingredients
- One pork belly
- One pork loin
- 2 tablespoons of fennel seeds
- 3 cloves of garlic
- A handful of fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Good quality ciabatta bread
- Arugula
Instructions
1. Lay the pork belly flat and place the pork loin in the center. Roll the meat tightly and tie it with kitchen twine, ensuring it holds its shape.
2. Crush the fennel seeds and garlic together in a mortar and pestle. Add the rosemary and continue grinding until you get a fragrant paste.
3. Rub the paste all over the rolled pork, making sure to cover it completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
5. Place the porchetta on a rack in a roasting pan, with the fatty side facing up. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).
6. Once the porchetta is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes.
7. While the porchetta is resting, slice the ciabatta bread and lightly toast it.
8. Slice the porchetta into thin slices and layer them onto the toasted ciabatta bread.
9. Top the porchetta with a handful of fresh arugula.
10. Add any other desired toppings such as sliced tomatoes or pickles.
11. Close your sandwich with another slice of ciabatta bread and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Making your own porchetta sandwich at home allows you to enjoy the flavors of Italy without having to travel. The crispy skin and tender meat of the porchetta paired with the freshness of arugula and the crusty ciabatta bread make for a truly irresistible combination. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a picnic, or simply want a satisfying lunch, the porchetta sandwich is a crowd-pleaser that won’t disappoint.