Roast Pork
BY CARSTEN OLSEN
Perfect Crispy Roast Pork for Christmas – Recipe by The Bald Chef
This recipe for crispy roast pork is created with the whole family in mind – a true Christmas classic that brings everyone, young and old, together around the table. Here’s a dish everyone will love, with ingredients that are easy to find at your local supermarket.
"Den Skaldede Kok" believes that cooking should be straightforward and free from unnecessary complications. Christmas is about coziness and traditions, and sometimes the simplest recipes are the best. That’s why this roast pork is prepared with the same philosophy – simplicity that delivers big flavor and joy to the Christmas table.
With Thermex's oven featuring a built-in air fryer function, achieving the crispiness usually reserved for traditional roasting methods is easy. This means you can serve a golden and crispy roast pork with a juicy interior – without complicated techniques or the worry of soft crackling. The oven ensures optimal air circulation, so the pork is cooked evenly and quickly, giving you more time to enjoy Christmas with your loved ones.
The air fryer function also allows you to reduce the use of fats without compromising on the classic Christmas flavor. Perfect for the busy holiday season, where great taste and crispiness are a must.
No air fryer? No problem! You can still make this delicious Christmas classic in a conventional oven and achieve fantastic results – the most important thing is the joy and coziness of a good meal.
Dive into the recipe here on the page and enjoy a juicy and crispy roast pork that brings Christmas spirit with every bite. Bon appétit!
GET THE RECIPE HERE
INGREDIENTS
ROAST PORK
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1 roast pork
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Bay leaves
CARAMELIZED POTATOES
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potatoes
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clarified butter
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salt and pepper
RED CABBAGE
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1 red cabbage
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salt and pepper
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raisins
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dried cranberries
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orange
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sugar
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acid in the form white (vinegar can also be used)
BROWN GRAVY
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roux-based gravy
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water
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stock
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fat from the roast pork
HOW TO DO IT
Prepare the Roast Pork
1. Score the rind deeply between the cracklings down to the meat and rub generously with salt between the cuts.
2. Place bay leaves between the cracklings for added flavor.
Cook the Roast Pork in the Airfryer Oven
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and cook the roast pork for 15 minutes.
2. Lower the temperature to 180°C (356°F) and roast for an additional 45-50 minutes, depending on the size.
3. Add a bit of water and stock to the bottom of the oven to create a flavorful base for the gravy.
Red Cabbage with a Twist
1. Finely slice the red cabbage and heat butter in a pot. Add the cabbage and let it simmer on low heat.
2. Add sugar, a splash of white wine or vinegar, and some lemon juice. Stir in dried cranberries and raisins for sweetness.
3. When the cabbage is nearly done, add freshly squeezed orange juice and orange pieces for extra freshness.
Caramelized Potatoes
1. Boil the potatoes in plenty of salted water with a splash of acid. Cool them down afterward.
2. Wrap the boiled potatoes in aluminum foil with a bit of liquid.
3. Melt butter and add sugar until it begins to caramelize. Gently toss the potatoes, letting them become golden and glossy in the oven.
Gravy from the Drippings
1. Remove the roast pork and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
2. Use the drippings from the bottom of the oven for the gravy and add extra stock.
3. Make a roux-based gravy with butter and some of the pork fat for extra flavor.
Serving Tip
Slice the roast pork and serve with the caramelized potatoes, flavorful red cabbage, and the rich gravy. Garnish the potatoes with chopped parsley for color and freshness.
TIPS FOR THE RECIPE
Preparation Makes the Difference
Ensure the ingredients are ready and at the right temperature. Take the roast pork out of the fridge well in advance to bring it to room temperature – this helps with even cooking and a juicy interior. Have all ingredients prepped and organized to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Season with Care
Simplicity can be your best friend in the kitchen. Salt and pepper are basic seasonings that truly enhance the flavor of the meat. Massage the salt thoroughly between the cracklings to draw out moisture and create a crispy rind. Keep the seasoning simple and don’t be afraid to use plenty – salt is a crucial component in a classic roast pork.
Optimal Oven Temperature
A perfect roast pork has golden, crispy crackling and juicy meat. Adjust the temperature as needed rather than keeping the meat at high heat for too long.
Classic Side Dishes with Balance
Aim for a balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors in the side dishes. Red cabbage should have a harmonious blend of acidity from vinegar or wine and sweetness from sugar, cranberries, or raisins. This creates a contrast to the roast pork and results in a flavorful, balanced meal.
Caramelized Potatoes
Using the oven method makes caramelized potatoes easier and more foolproof. Let the oven handle the caramelization, so you don’t have to stir constantly and risk burnt caramel. Adding a little liquid with butter and sugar ensures a glossy surface without the potatoes drying out. This method requires less supervision, giving you more time to focus on other parts of the meal – perfect for a busy Christmas Eve.
Let the Pork Rest
Allow the meat to rest for at least 15 minutes. This redistributes the juices in the meat, ensuring every slice is juicy and flavorful. The resting period truly makes a difference and allows the dish to reach its full potential. Remember, meat is expensive – don’t ruin it!
Finally – Make It Your Own
Roast pork dinner is a traditional dish, but feel free to adjust small details to your own taste. Add a sprinkle of parsley to the potatoes for color or an extra splash of orange juice to the red cabbage for freshness. Small, personal touches make the meal unique and create a cozy atmosphere at the Christmas table.
Watch the Video with "The Bald Chef" – Make Crispy Roast Pork in Thermex's Oven with Airfryer Function
Want to see how "The Bald Chef" prepares the perfect roast pork with crispy crackling? In the video, he demonstrates how to achieve crunchy crackling and juicy meat – all with the help of Thermex's oven featuring an airfryer function. Get all his best tips and tricks straight from the kitchen!
Click here to watch the video and get inspired to make a delicious, crispy roast pork without extra hassle – fast, efficient, and with minimal oil! The video is in Danish, but you can add English subtitles.
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