Perfectly Roasted Leg of Pork

Name: Perfectly Roasted Leg of Pork
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 220 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2.5 kg leg of pork (bone-in, skin on); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons sea salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper (freshly ground); 2 tablespoons rosemary (fresh, chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced)

220 min 8 servings Medium

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Succulent roasted leg of pork with crispy skin and juicy meat. Perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner.

Prep

20 min

Cook

180 min

Total

220 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

A roasted leg of pork is a classic dish that promises both a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. This version of roasted pork leg ensures the perfect balance of flavour and texture, making it an ideal centrepiece for any festive occasion or family gathering. The secret to a perfect roast lies in the preparation and the cooking technique. By scoring the skin, seasoning generously, and roasting at the right temperature, you can achieve a mouth-watering result that will impress your guests. This recipe is tailored for those who love the rich taste of pork with a delightful crackling.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).

Pro tip: A hot oven helps set the crust initially.

Prepare the Pork

Pat the pork leg dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, score the skin in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.

Pro tip: Scoring the skin helps fat render out and the skin crisp up.

Season the Pork

Rub the pork with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, rosemary, and garlic. Ensure the seasoning gets into the scored skin.

Pro tip: Seasoning generously ensures flavour penetrates the meat.

Roast the Pork

Place the pork in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Initial high heat helps create a crispy skin.

Reduce the Temperature

Lower the oven temperature to 160°C (320°F). Continue roasting for 150 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked through.

Rest the Pork

Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier.

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Tips & Tricks

Bring the pork to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
Score the pork skin deeply to allow fat to render and skin to crisp.
Rest the roast before carving to retain juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I cook a leg of pork per kg?

Cook a leg of pork for approx. 60 minutes per kg at 160°C (320°F) after an initial high-heat roast.

What temperature should a leg of pork be cooked to?

Roast pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).

How do I get crispy pork skin?

To achieve crispy skin, score the skin, dry it thoroughly, and start roasting at a high temperature.

Can I prepare roasted leg of pork in advance?

You can season the pork and score the skin a day in advance, keeping it uncovered in the fridge to dry out the skin.

What should I serve with roasted leg of pork?

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and apple sauce for a classic pairing.

How do I store leftover roasted pork?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your perfectly roasted leg of pork with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a tangy apple sauce to complement the rich flavours. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavour.

Nutrition per serving

400

Calories

35g

Protein

28g

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Medium220 min

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