Festive Pork with Mustard Sauce and Root Vegetable Mash

This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of a savory pork roast with the creamy texture of a root vegetable mash, making it perfect for special occasions. The pork is infused with the subtle heat of garlic and seasoned with aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering aroma that will fill your kitchen. The accompanying mustard and cheddar cheese sauce adds a tangy richness that complements the tender meat beautifully. The root vegetable mash, featuring potatoes, parsnips, and carrots, provides a deliciously smooth and slightly sweet contrast to the savory pork. This recipe balances rich flavors with comfort and is sure to become a family favorite. It's a dish that showcases the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. The apple cider or juice adds a fruity note that enhances the overall depth of the meal. Giving it all a perfect finish, the dressing brings a touch of sophistication to the dish. Whether for a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 - 2 kg boneless pork loin
• 600 g potatoes
• 300 g parsnips
• 250 g carrots
• 200 ml apple cider or apple juice
• 125 ml milk
• 50 g butter
• 300 g cheddar cheese

Spices and Sauces

• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Caraway seeds
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 100 minutes
Preparation & Cooking: 1.5 hours

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Garlic and Meat: Peel and slice the garlic cloves into thin rounds. Using a sharp knife, make small incisions in the pork loin and insert the garlic slices into these cuts.

2. Season the Meat: Rub the pork liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle caraway seeds over the meat for added flavor. Pour the apple cider or juice over the pork to help tenderize and add sweetness.

3. Roast the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in a preheated oven at 190°C (374°F). Roast for approximately 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe point for pork.

4. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pork is roasting, peel and chop the potatoes, parsnips, and carrots into small, even pieces.

5. Cook the Vegetables: Boil the chopped vegetables in salted water until tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes.

6. Drain and Mash: Once soft, drain the vegetables and return them to the pot. Add the butter and warm milk, then blend them into a smooth mash using a hand blender or masher.

7. Make the Sauce: After roasting, remove the pork and set aside to rest. Pour the roasting juices into a saucepan and bring to a simmer.

8. Add Cheese and Mustard: Stir in Dijon mustard and grated cheddar cheese into the juices, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. If too thick, thin with a little water.

9. Serve the Dish: Slice the rested pork into portions, cover with the cheese sauce, and serve with a generous portion of the root vegetable mash.

Tips

• Substitutions: If you prefer a less sharp taste, substitute cheddar with a milder cheese like Gouda.
• Vegetable Variations: Sweet potatoes or turnips can replace parsnips for different flavor profiles.
• Tenderizing the Meat: Marinate the pork overnight in apple cider for enhanced tenderness.

Nutritions

• Calories: 750 per serving
• Protein: 60g
• Fats: 40g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure mustard and cheese are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Replace pork with a roasted cauliflower "steak" and use vegetable broth for the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a crisp, chilled white wine like Chardonnay to complement the creamy sauce.

Best Places

1. Le Cochon Rouge - Known for exquisite pork dishes with a modern twist. Location: 35 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
2. The Garlic's Kitchen - A haven for garlic lovers offering unique takes on classic recipes. Location: 123 Main Street, San Francisco, USA.
3. La Table de Pierre - Combines classic French flair with international flavors. Location: 22 Avenue Louise, Brussels, Belgium.
4. Bistro Cheddar - Famous for its cheese-focused dishes and cozy atmosphere. Location: 18 Cheese Lane, London, UK.
5. Cider & Mash - A charming spot with a focus on cider pairings with traditional meals. Location: 88 Royal Street, Sydney, Australia.
6. Root Veggie Delight - Specializes in creative vegetable-based plates. Location: 47 Upper Street, Dublin, Ireland.
7. Táble Gastronomie - Renowned for its artistic approach to classic dishes. Location: 15 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
8. Rustic Roast - Offers a rural charm with hearty, home-style cooking. Location: 50 Farm Road, Toronto, Canada.
9. Café Dijon - Offers a taste of cosmopolitan France in a tranquil setting. Location: 21 Dijon Street, Lyon, France.
10. Cheese & More - Celebrates all things cheese with an array of gourmet dishes. Location: 81 Cheese Avenue, Rome, Italy.