Porchetta di Monte San Savino

Ingredients

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) pork loin 2 kg (4.4 lbs) pork loin
• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) pork belly 1 kg (2.2 lbs) pork belly
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 35g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 0g, 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, fennel seeds, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Lay the pork loin flat and season it with the herb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. 4.
   Place the pork belly on top of the seasoned pork loin.
5. 5.
   Roll the pork loin and belly tightly, securing it with kitchen twine at regular intervals.
6. 6.
   Rub the exterior of the rolled pork with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. 7.
   Place the porchetta on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
8. 8.
   Roast the porchetta in the preheated oven for approximately 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 65°C (150°F).
9. 9.
   Increase the oven temperature to 220°C (425°F) and continue roasting for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the crackling is golden and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove the porchetta from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
11. 11.
    Slice the porchetta into thick slices and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork belly — Choose a piece of pork belly with a good balance of fat and meat for the best results.
• Fennel seeds — Toasting the fennel seeds before using them will enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, marinate the pork loin and belly with the herb mixture overnight in the refrigerator.
• To achieve a crispy crackling, make sure the skin is dry before roasting. Pat it dry with paper towels if needed.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Porchetta di Monte San Savino as the centerpiece of a festive meal. Accompany it with roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Present the sliced porchetta on a large platter, showcasing the crispy crackling on top. Garnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme for an elegant touch.