Pork Braciole Oven Recipe: A Mouth-Watering Italian Classic Dish

If you’re looking for a delicious, classic Italian dish that’ll make your taste buds dance with flavor, pork braciole is the perfect option. This dish is not only satisfying and easy to make, but it’s also very versatile, allowing you to add or adjust ingredients to suit your preferences. In this article, we’ll dive into the exciting world of pork braciole, taking a closer look at all the aspects of this culinary masterpiece.

Understanding Pork Braciole

Pork braciole (pronounced bra-cho-lay) is a traditional Italian dish made with thinly sliced pork cutlets. Typically, the cutlets are pounded until they become thin and then filled with a stuffing consisting of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and sometimes other ingredients like herbs and mozzarella cheese. The pork is rolled up tight and then secured with toothpicks or kitchen twine, creating a spiral-shaped roll. The rolls are then browned in a skillet before being oven-baked in a savory tomato sauce.

The result is a tender pork roll infused with a variety of flavors – a dish that’s both hearty and comforting.

Selecting and Cleaning Pork for Pork Braciole

The key to making great pork braciole starts with selecting and preparing your pork. When it comes to the selection, you’ll want to choose pork loin or tenderloin – two of the most tender cuts of pork that are perfect for this dish. It’s recommended to choose a thicker cut (a minimum of 1 inch thick) as it can be easier to roll once it’s pounded.

Before preparing your pork, be sure to give it a proper cleaning. Rinse it under cool, running water to remove any excess dirt or debris that may have accumulated during shipping or handling.

Preparing Pork Braciole

pork braciole

Pounding and stuffing the pork with the filling is the most challenging part of making pork braciole, but it’s also the most rewarding. Here are some basic steps you can follow to prepare pork braciole at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs

  • 1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or oregano

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin

  • Salt and pepper

  • Toothpicks

  • Olive oil

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 cup red wine

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

  2. Mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan, parsley, basil or oregano, and garlic in a small bowl.

  3. Butterfly the pork tenderloin by slicing down the center lengthwise, but not all the way through. Open the pork like a book onto a work surface.

  4. Pound the pork with a meat mallet until it’s an even thickness.

  5. Season the pork evenly with salt and pepper.

  6. Spoon the breadcrumbs mixture over the top of the pork.

  7. Roll the pork tightly and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

  8. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork on all sides.

  9. Transfer the pork to a baking dish and bake for about 45 minutes.

  10. Let the pork rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

  11. While the pork is resting, heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet.

  12. Add the onion and saute until it’s tender and translucent.

  13. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red wine, then simmer until the sauce thickens.

  14. Serve the pork hot with the tomato sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Pork Braciole

pork braciole

The preparation of pork braciole may sound intimidating, but here are some tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfect every time:

  1. Make sure to thoroughly pound the cutlets to make them as thin as possible. This is crucial as it will make your pork easier to roll and also ensures even cooking.

  2. Don’t skimp on your filling. The stuffing is what makes your pork braciole unique and flavorful, so be generous when adding your breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and garlic.

  3. Heat your skillet before adding the pork. Heating the skillet beforehand will ensure that when you add the pork, it immediately browns and gets a nice sear.

  4. Don’t be afraid to braise your pork Braciole. You can braise the pork in a tomato sauce, chicken stock, or beef broth. This will enhance the flavor and keep the pork moist.

Overcooking and Undercooking Pork Braciole

oven baked pork braciole

Pork braciole is best when it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C), which is medium-rare. The exact cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the pork as well as your oven’s temperature. To make sure your pork is at the appropriate temperature, use a cooking thermometer to take the internal temperature in several places. Also, be sure to let the pork rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute inside the meat.

While undercooking pork poses a risk of foodborne illnesses, overcooking pork can make it tough and dry. A good way to avoid overcooking is by basting the pork with pan juices or sauce and covering it with foil – a technique that will allow the meat to stay moist and tender.

Variations on Pork Braciole

oven baked pork braciole

Pork braciole is a versatile dish that allows you to customize to your liking by experimenting with different stuffing and sauce. Here are a few variations of pork braciole you can try:

  1. Instead of a tomato sauce, you can use a mushroom sauce for a richer taste.

  2. Add some dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or figs into the stuffing to add some sweetness.

  3. Use different types of cheese such as provolone, mozzarella, or ricotta.

  4. Substitute the pork with chicken or beef.

In Conclusion

Pork braciole is a classic Italian dish that’s full of flavor and texture. With the right selection of ingredients and a few tips on preparation, anyone can prepare a perfect pork braciole. So, head to the grocery store, pick up some pork tenderloin and start preparing your delicious pork braciole today!

Sources
  • A recipe for classic Italian pork braciole in tomato sauce
  • Pork braciole – Recipe Petitchef
  • Pork Braciole Recipe by Giada de Laurentiis – Giadzy
  • Braciole Pork with a Twist – Grits and Pinecones
  • FAQS On Pork Braciole Oven Recipe

    What Is Pork Braciole?

    Pork braciole is an Italian dish made with thinly sliced pork loin that is rolled and filled with a flavorful stuffing. It is then cooked in the oven until tender and juicy.

    How Do I Prepare The Pork For Braciole?

    To prepare the pork for braciole, start by pounding the pork loin slices to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Then, season the pork with salt and pepper before adding the filling.

    What Are Some Common Fillings For Pork Braciole?

    Some common fillings for pork braciole include a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, and sometimes even prosciutto or salami. You can also add other ingredients such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or grated cheese variations based on personal preference.

    How Do I Roll The Pork Braciole?

    To roll the pork braciole, spread the filling evenly over each slice of pork. Then, starting from one end, roll the pork tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine. This will help hold the braciole together during cooking.

    How Long Does It Take To Cook Pork Braciole In The Oven?

    The cooking time for pork braciole in the oven can vary depending on individual recipes and the thickness of the pork slices. However, as a general guideline, pork braciole is typically cooked at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the pork is cooked through and tender. It is recommended to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.