If you’re looking to wow your family or guests with a stunning centerpiece for your next holiday or special occasion, a pork crown roast is an excellent choice. This impressive dish not only looks regal but also offers tender, flavorful meat that everyone will love. Wondering how to make a pork crown roast? Let’s dive into an easy-to-follow guide that will take you from preparation to the perfect roast.
What Is a Pork Crown Roast?
A pork crown roast is made from two pork loin roasts, each with ribs, trimmed and tied together in a circular shape resembling a crown. The ribs stand upright, creating a visually striking presentation. The center can be filled with stuffing or dressing, making it both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 pork crown roast (8 to 12 ribs, about 6 to 9 pounds)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Olive oil (about 5 ½ tablespoons)
– Grated zest of 1 orange
– 4 large cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– Optional: your favorite BBQ seasoning or mustard (for a smoky flavor)
– For the gravy:
– ¾ cup dry white wine
– ½ cup fresh apple cider
– 1 cup chicken stock (low sodium)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Step 1: Preparing the Crown Roast
Start by asking your butcher to prepare the crown roast for you. They will remove the chine and feather bones and trim excess fat, making it easier to cook and carve later.
If you’re doing it yourself, carefully cut between the ribs about ½ to ¾ inch deep to make the rack flexible enough to bend into a circle. Arrange the two racks with the cut sides facing out, then bend them into a crown shape and tie securely with butcher’s twine.
Step 2: Seasoning the Roast
Brush the entire roast with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, mix orange zest, minced garlic, rosemary, and the remaining olive oil, then rub this mixture all over the roast, inside and out. This citrus-herb blend adds a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the pork beautifully.
If you prefer a smoky BBQ twist, spread yellow mustard as a binder and then coat the roast with your favorite BBQ seasoning.
Step 3: Roasting the Pork Crown
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the roast on a rack in a heavy-duty roasting pan, ensuring it has enough space to cook evenly. Roast at 425°F for 15 minutes to develop a nice crust.
Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting. Rotate the pan after 45 minutes to ensure even browning. The total cooking time will be about 1.5 hours, but the key is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat (avoiding bones) and cook until it reaches 150°F (65°C) for medium doneness.
For a smoked flavor, you can also cook the crown roast in a smoker at 225°F, adding wood chips for aroma. This method takes about 2.5 to 3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Making the Gravy
While the roast cooks, prepare a delicious pan gravy. Pour the pan juices into a fat separator or let them sit so the fat rises to the top. Remove the fat, then place the roasting pan on the stove over medium-high heat.
Add white wine to deglaze the pan, stirring up the browned bits. Boil until the liquid reduces by half, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in apple cider and chicken stock, bring to a boil again, and season with salt and pepper.
Mix butter and flour into a paste, then whisk it into the pan juices to thicken the gravy. Cook for 4-5 minutes until glossy and smooth, then strain into a gravy boat for serving.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the roast reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, tender meat.
If you made stuffing or wild rice dressing, bake it during this resting period to warm it through. Then, place the roast on a serving platter, spoon the dressing into the center of the crown, carve between the ribs, and serve with the homemade gravy.
Tips for Success
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your roast is perfectly cooked without drying out.
– Tie the roast securely: Proper trussing keeps the crown shape intact during cooking.
– Add a flavorful glaze: For a sweet and tangy finish, brush the roast with a glaze made from maple syrup, brown sugar, orange juice, and bourbon during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
– Presentation matters: Garnish the crown with fresh herbs or cranberries threaded on string for festive occasions.
Making a pork crown roast may seem intimidating, but with these clear steps, you can create a stunning and delicious centerpiece that will impress everyone at your table.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious results!