Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 whole suckling pig (10-12 pounds)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
Special equipment needed:
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Rinse the suckling pig inside and out with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Rub the pig with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pig in a roasting pan and add the sliced apples and onions around it.
5. In a saucepan, combine the apple cider, chicken broth, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Pour the apple cider mixture over the pig and the apples and onions.
7. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and place in the oven.
8. Roast the pig for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
9. Remove the aluminum foil and continue to roast the pig for another 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
10. Remove the pig from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 4-5 hours
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
- Internal temperature of pig: 165°F
Serving size:
- 8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 70g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork loin or shoulder can be used instead of suckling pig.
- Apple juice can be used instead of apple cider.
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth.
Variations:
- Add chopped garlic and rosemary to the apple cider mixture for extra flavor.
- Stuff the pig with herbs, garlic, and lemon before roasting.
- Use pears instead of apples for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pat the pig dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy skin.
- Baste the pig with the apple cider mixture every hour to keep it moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pig is cooked to the correct temperature.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover pig in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pig in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pig on a large platter with the roasted apples and onions.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme.
- Lemon wedges.
Pairings:
- Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes.
- Green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes.
- Roasted sweet potatoes.
- Grilled asparagus.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the skin is not crispy enough, increase the oven temperature to 400°F for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pig to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Wash your hands and all surfaces that come into contact with the pig to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
- Roast suckling pig is a traditional dish in many cultures, including Spanish, Filipino, and Chinese.
Flavor profiles:
- The apple cider and cinnamon add a sweet and spicy flavor to the pork.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pig with a glass of red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A