Gather the Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 whole pork belly (approximately 5 pounds)
- 1 boneless pork loin (approximately 3 pounds)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- Butcher’s twine
Prepare the Porchetta
1. Lay the pork belly flat on a clean surface with the skin side down.
2. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, fennel seeds, rosemary, sage, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful herb paste.
3. Spread the herb paste evenly over the pork belly, ensuring every inch is covered.
4. Place the boneless pork loin in the center of the herb-covered pork belly.
5. Roll the pork belly tightly around the pork loin, making sure the skin is on the outside.
6. Secure the rolled porchetta with butcher’s twine, tying it at regular intervals to hold its shape.
Cooking the Porchetta
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Place the porchetta on a rack in a roasting pan, making sure the skin is facing up.
3. Roast the porchetta for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
4. Increase the oven temperature to 500°F (260°C) for the final 30 minutes to crisp up the skin. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Once your porchetta is cooked to perfection, allow it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve it as the centerpiece of a festive meal or use it to make mouthwatering sandwiches. Porchetta pairs well with tangy pickles, crusty bread, and a side of greens. Enjoy!
Now that you have the knowledge to make your own scrumptious porchetta, it’s time to gather the ingredients and give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you for this flavorful journey through Italian cuisine!