Michigan Porketta
A flavorful roasted pork dish originating from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, often seasoned with fennel and garlic, and slow-cooked to tender perfection. It's a hearty and aromatic specialty.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 lbs Pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 2 tbsp Fennel seeds(crushed)
- 8 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tbsp Rosemary(fresh, chopped)
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 0.5 cup Water or chicken broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
💡 Tip: Drying the surface helps create a better crust. - 2
In a small bowl, combine the crushed fennel seeds, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Rub the olive oil all over the pork shoulder. Then, generously coat the pork with the fennel and garlic mixture, pressing it into the meat.
💡 Tip: Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed for consistent flavor. - 4
Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan. Add the water or chicken broth to the bottom of the pan.
💡 Tip: The liquid will create steam, helping to keep the pork moist. - 5
Cover the roasting pan tightly with foil. Roast for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pork is very tender and reaches an internal temperature of 195-200°F (90-93°C).
💡 Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The pork should easily pull apart. - 6
Remove the pork from the oven. Let it rest, covered, for 15-20 minutes before shredding or slicing.
💡 Tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent roast. - 7
Serve the porketta shredded or sliced, with its pan juices spooned over the top. It's traditionally served with crusty bread or potatoes.
💡 Tip: The pan juices are packed with flavor and make an excellent sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If you prefer a crispier exterior, remove the foil for the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
- ✓For an even deeper flavor, you can let the seasoned pork sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before roasting.
- ✓Adjust the amount of fennel and garlic to your personal preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a splash of red wine to the liquid in the roasting pan for added depth of flavor.
- Incorporate other herbs like thyme or oregano into the seasoning rub.
- Serve on crusty rolls as a sandwich.