| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 2 hours | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 467 | 26g | 8g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 3g | 45g | 1.6g |
Your Gourmet Guru is excited to introduce the Juniper Berry and Rosemary Pork Roast, a recipe that’s a harmonious blend of savory pork and sweet, fragrant fruit. This dish takes inspiration from both my Pacific Northwest upbringing, where fruit-picking is practically a regional pastime, and my frequent visits to Japan, where I’ve learned the delicate art of balancing flavors for taste perfection.
The Heart of This Dish
One might wonder where the magic lies in the Juniper Berry and Rosemary Pork Roast. For me, it’s in the juniper berries. Tiny, but surely not shy, these cool, peppery berries add a certain je ne sais quoi to the succulent pork roast – a nod to the evergreen landscapes that characterize my Seattle roots. The inclusion of crushed juniper berries takes the standard pork roast from good to superb, giving it an arresting aroma and a depth of flavor that’s truly memorable.
A Symphony of Health Benefits
This dish brings not only great taste but also notable health benefits. Pork is high in protein and essential vitamins, aiding in muscle building and providing key nutrients. Juniper berries, consumed in moderation, are known to offer a range of benefits, including improved digestion and reduced inflammation.
Additionally, the fresh fruits – you can use your favorites from apples to cranberries – add an array of antioxidants, fiber, and natural sweetness to the dish. Olive oil and garlic have their respective health benefits too, making this recipe an all-round winner in terms of taste and nutrition.
All About Pairings
Given its full-bodied flavor and fruit-filled undertones, this Pork Roast gets along well with a wide range of dishes. It’s similarity to the Italian Arista di Maiale al Forno recipe, where the roast is also spiked with garlic and rosemary, means that it can be served with sides that pair well with Italian cuisine like crusty breads or a bright, crunchy salad. To double down on the fruit elements, consider a side of mulled wine or a hearty, fruit-forward red.
But, as always, the best pairing is the one that suits your tastes. After all, the most satisfying meals are the ones received by a happy palate.
What You’ll Need
- 3 pounds pork roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons juniper berries, crushed
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup assorted fresh fruit (like apples, pears, and cranberries)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, optional
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Then, take your pork roast and season it generously with salt and black pepper. Ensure it is well covered for optimal flavor.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork roast on all sides until it turns golden brown. This process should take around two minutes per side.
Step Three
Once seared, transfer the pork roast to a roasting pan. Scatter the crushed juniper berries and fresh rosemary sprigs all over it. Add the minced garlic as well to enhance the flavors.
Step Four
Next, in a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Pour this mixture over the pork roast in the pan. Then, scatter the fresh fruits all over and around the roast.
Step Five
Put the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast the pork for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).
Step Six
Optional, but for a thicker sauce, remove 1/4 cup of the juice from the roasting pan and mix it with the cornstarch in a small bowl until well combined. Pour this mixture back into the roasting pan and stir to combine.
Step Seven
Once done, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the roast, providing a moist and flavorful result.
Step Eight
Cut into your delicious Juniper Berry and Rosemary Pork Roast and serve. Enjoy your meal!
