Roasted Pork Fennel and Onions Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Aromatic

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Roasted Pork Fennel and Onions RecipeRoasted pork with fennel and onions is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the sweetness of caramelized onions and the unique, anise-like flavor of fennel. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe and explore how to make it, along with some tips and variations to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pork tenderloin (or your preferred cut)
  • 2 large fennel bulbs, sliced
  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fennel seeds
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 carrots, sliced (for added sweetness and texture)
  • 2 apples, cored and sliced (for a touch of tartness)
  • 1 cup potatoes, cubed (to make it a more hearty meal)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the fennel bulbs and onions into thin pieces. The thinner the slices, the more they will caramelize and release their sweetness.
  3. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.

Step 2: Seasoning the Pork

  1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  2. Rub the pork with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
  3. Sprinkle fennel seeds evenly over the pork, pressing them gently to adhere.

Step 3: Searing the Pork

  1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This helps lock in the juices and adds a rich flavor.

Step 4: Roasting the Vegetables

  1. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the sliced fennel, onions, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 5: Combining and Roasting

  1. Place the seared pork back into the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables.
  2. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  3. If adding apples, carrots, or potatoes, place them around the pork in the skillet before transferring it to the oven.

Step 6: Resting and Serving

  1. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Slice the pork and serve with the roasted fennel and onions (and any optional vegetables).

Tips and Variations

Cooking Tips

  • What does roasted fennel taste like? Roasted fennel has a sweet, mild flavor with a hint of anise. It’s delicious and complements the pork perfectly.
  • What part of roasted pork is best? Pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use pork shoulder or loin for a richer flavor.
  • Why fennel seeds are roasted? Roasting fennel seeds enhances their flavor, making them more aromatic and slightly sweet.

Variations

  • Slow Roasted Pork Fennel and Onions: Use a slow cooker for a hands-off approach. Sear the pork and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender.
  • Pork Tenderloin with Fennel and Carrots: Add sliced carrots for a sweet and earthy flavor.
  • Roast Pork with Fennel and Apple: Add sliced apples for a touch of tartness that pairs beautifully with the savory pork.
  • Roasted Pork Fennel and Onions with Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes to make the dish more hearty and filling.
  • Roasted Pork Fennel and Onions (BBC Good Food): For a twist, try a version inspired by BBC Good Food, using their suggested ingredients and techniques.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approximate):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 500mg

This roasted pork with fennel and onions is a flavorful, comforting dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of tender pork, sweet caramelized onions, and aromatic fennel creates a harmonious blend of flavors that are hard to resist. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal with your family and friends.

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