The Christmas ham is a classic holiday dinner – no one will deny that. However, pork, especially our Berkshire pork, or our milk-fed Porcelet, is a great option for a special occasion dinner. This is not the other white meat; our pork is richly flavored, meltingly tender, and nothing like that pale commodity stuff on the market.
Here are 5 recipes for festive pork dishes that will make Christmas dinner a memorable and porktastic meal.
And it so happens that some of these selections can be found in our 40% off freezer sale right now (ends 12/8/16). Planning ahead pays off!
1. Berkshire Pork Loin Stuffed with Apples, Cranberry, and Bacon
In this easy holiday recipe, which serves 12-15 people, succulent Berkshire pork loin is filled with a jeweled stuffing of apple, cranberry, and smoky bacon, then served with a sweet-tart cider sauce.
2. 8-Hour Porcelet Shoulder with Crackling
This simple method of slow-roasting a Porcelet shoulder with only salt and pepper highlights the clean flavor of our milk-fed piglet. Eight full hours in a low oven makes the meat incredibly tender, and a quick blast under the broiler yields a deliciously crispy crackling. You will serve 6-8 very lucky guests with this recipe.
3. Roast Porcelet Porchetta with Garlic & Herbs
You don’t need to be a professional chef to make this beautiful porchetta and serve 12 people. That said, it does take some basic knife skills and a little patience, because it starts with a bone-in Porcelet Loin. The succulent, milk-fed porcelet stays moist, while garlic and fresh herbs enhance the clean, pork flavor. Take your time to blister the skin evenly for best results.
4. Garlic-Roasted Pork Loin
A paste of pungent garlic and fresh herbs coats the outside of this delicious roast, creating an extra flavorful crust and sealing in moisture. This will serve 8-10, but if you’re lucky enough for leftovers, the pork loin makes phenomenal sandwiches the next day.
5. Roast Berkshire Pork Rib Rack
Berkshire pork is so flavorful and naturally moist it needs very little adornment, as this recipe for a roasted 10-rib rack attests. A simple rub and reverse sear ensure the heritage breed pork is the star of this special occasion roast, which serves 6-10 people.
