Arrosto di Maiale, or Italian roast pork, is a traditional and flavorful dish often served as a main course in Italian family meals, especially during special occasions and holidays. This dish typically involves a pork loin or shoulder that is seasoned with a mix of herbs and garlic, then slow-roasted until tender and juicy. The result is a beautifully golden, aromatic, and succulent roast that is both hearty and comforting. The Italian approach to roasting pork often includes the use of rosemary, garlic, and sometimes fennel, giving the meat a distinctive and savory flavor profile.

How to Make Arrosto di Maiale

Ingredients:

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) pork loin or pork shoulder
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (240 ml) white wine or chicken broth
• 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces
• 2 celery stalks, cut into large pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the Pork:

   • Pat the pork dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to make small incisions all over the surface of the pork. Insert the minced garlic into the incisions.
   • In a small bowl, mix together the chopped rosemary, thyme (if using), fennel seeds (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub this herb mixture all over the pork, pressing it into the meat.

3. Sear the Pork:

   • In a large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until it is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.

4. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Add the quartered onion, carrots, and celery to the same pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.

5. Roast the Pork:

   • Place the pork back into the pan on top of the vegetables. Add the white wine or chicken broth to the pan.
   • Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 70°C (160°F). Baste the pork occasionally with the pan juices to keep it moist.
   • About 10 minutes before the pork is done, add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt, basting the pork with the buttery juices.

6. Rest and Serve:

   • Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays tender and flavorful.
   • Serve the pork slices with the roasted vegetables and pan juices drizzled over the top.

Estimated Nutritional Content Per Serving (Based on 6 Servings):

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: ~350-450 kcal
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~5g
• Fat: ~25g
• Fiber: ~2g

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. Arrosto di Maiale is a high-protein dish with a moderate amount of fat, primarily from the pork and added butter. The dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a filling and satisfying meal that is well-suited for those following a lower-carb diet. The roasted vegetables add fiber and a touch of sweetness to complement the savory roast.