Porketa
Porketa is a flavorful rolled pork roast with fresh herbs and spices, ideal for gatherings and hearty meals, offering aromatic and savory notes that appeal to meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Debone the pork shoulder and remove any outside fat.
- Fill the rolled roast with a mixture of parsley, garlic, dill weed, fennel seed, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Roll the roast jelly-roll fashion and tie it securely with string.
- Rub the outside of the roast with a mixture of salt, pepper, and dried rosemary.
- Roast in a 350° F oven for 35 to 45 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 170°F.
- Allow the roast to stand for 15 minutes before carving for easier slicing.
- Slice and serve on hard rolls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight with the herb mixture. If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute with fresh basil or cilantro, though the flavor will differ slightly. Using a meat thermometer ensures that the pork reaches the perfect internal temperature. If you want to add a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works well.
Serving Suggestions
Porketa is delicious served on hard rolls, making it perfect for sandwiches. Pair it with a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting combination, serve with a side of Macaroni And Cheese Pizza Casserole or Rice Oriental. A light salad can also balance the richness of the pork.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover porketa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a skillet over medium heat with a little broth or water to keep it moist, or you can microwave it, covered, in short intervals until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porketa contains roughly 153 calories, with 7g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and potassium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1995mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork loin or tenderloin instead of shoulder. Keep in mind that these cuts are leaner and may require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly to avoid drying out.
What can I do if I can't find fennel seed?
If fennel seed is unavailable, you can substitute it with an equal amount of anise seed or omit it altogether. The flavor will be different, but the dish will still be delicious.
How can I tell when the porketa is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 170°F for the pork to be safely cooked. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a knife.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).