
Authentic Italian Porketta
Juicy, herb-infused pork roast with crispy skin, perfect for a hearty meal.
20 mins
Prep Time
3 hours
Cook Time
6
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 (4-5 lb) pork shoulder roast, skin-on
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fennel seeds
- 1 tbsp rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Prepare the pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Score the skin in a crosshatch pattern with a sharp knife, being careful not to cut too deep into the meat.
Make the rub: In a bowl, mix minced garlic, fennel seeds, rosemary, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, olive oil, and lemon juice to form a paste.
Season the pork: Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, making sure to get it into the scored cuts and under the skin if possible. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the pork on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pan to prevent burning.
Roast the pork: Cook for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For extra crispy skin, increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the last 15 minutes.
Rest and serve: Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan juices drizzled over the top.
Chef's Tips
- Crispy Skin Tip: For ultra-crispy skin, dry the pork uncovered in the fridge overnight before roasting.
- Herb Variations: Add oregano or sage for additional flavor complexity.
- Basting: Baste occasionally with pan juices to keep the meat moist.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.