What is Porceddu?
Porceddu is a renowned dish in Sardinia, an Italian island located in the Mediterranean Sea. Its name translates to “piglet” in English, and it refers to a young suckling pig, typically around four to five weeks old, roasted whole on a spit. Porceddu is considered the epitome of Sardinian cuisine and is often served during special occasions, festivals, and family gatherings.
What Makes Porceddu So Special?
What sets Porceddu apart from other roast pork dishes is the preparation and cooking method. The piglet is seasoned with local herbs such as rosemary and fennel seeds, then roasted slowly over an open fire for several hours. The result? A perfectly golden and crackling skin encasing tender and flavorsome meat, permeated with aromatic herb-infused juices.
Ingredients and Preparation
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to cook Porceddu:
- 1 suckling pig, around 4-5 weeks old
- Sea salt
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Fresh rosemary
- Fennel seeds
To prepare the Porceddu:
- Clean the piglet thoroughly and pat it dry.
- Rub sea salt all over the skin, ensuring an even coating.
- Insert sprigs of fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of fennel seeds into the belly cavity.
- Tie the piglet with kitchen twine to secure the shape.
- Allow the piglet to rest at room temperature for at least an hour.
Cooking Porceddu
Cooking Porceddu is an art that requires patience and attention to detail. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare a fire pit or charcoal grill, ensuring a steady medium-high heat.
- Place the prepared piglet on a rotisserie spit, securing it tightly.
- Position the spit over the fire, making sure it rotates evenly.
- Baste the piglet with olive oil and continue cooking for approximately two to three hours, depending on the size of the piglet. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
- Throughout the cooking process, keep an eye on the fire, adjusting the heat and adding wood or charcoal when needed.
- Once the skin is beautifully golden and crispy, and the meat is tender, the Porceddu is ready to be enjoyed!
Serving and Pairing
To savor the authentic Sardinian experience, serve the Porceddu alongside traditional Sardinian bread, roasted potatoes, and a fresh salad. Pair it with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cannonau di Sardegna, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Now that you’ve learned how to cook Porceddu, it’s time to gather your friends and family, embrace the Sardinian spirit, and enjoy this mouthwatering delicacy. Buon appetito!