Marinated Rack of Pork with Cumin and Paprika

Name: Marinated Rack of Pork with Cumin and Paprika
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 pork rack (6 chops); 3/4 cup La Española Classic Olive Oil; 1 tbsp sweet paprika; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved; Padrón peppers, to taste; 1 handful cashews, roughly chopped; 1 handful peanuts, roughly chopped; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Main Meat

The Perfect Marinated Rack of Pork

Master the art of making a mouthwatering rack of pork, marinated to perfection. Spiced with cumin and paprika, it’s the perfect dish to serve on special occasions.

3 hours 15 minutes (including 1 hour of resting time)

Ingredients

1 pork rack (6 chops)
3/4 cup La Española Classic Olive Oil
1 tbsp sweet paprika
1 tbsp ground cumin
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
Padrón peppers, to taste
1 handful cashews, roughly chopped
1 handful peanuts, roughly chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste

preparation

1.

Generously season the pork rack with salt and black pepper. In a small bowl, mix the paprika and ground cumin. Rub this spice blend evenly over the pork rack. Allow the pork to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully absorb the flavors.
2.

Heat 3/4 cup of La Española Classic Olive Oil in a skillet over low heat. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté until it turns golden, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the remaining paprika, cumin, chopped thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 30 seconds, then remove from heat and set aside.
3.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pork rack in a large roasting pan. Cover the exposed bones with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Arrange the baby potatoes around the pork and drizzle everything with the garlic and herb oil.
4.

Roast the pork for approximately 30 minutes per 2.2 lbs, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat reads 145°F. Baste the pork and potatoes with the oil and juices from the pan every 30 minutes to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
5.

About 30 minutes before the pork is done, sprinkle the chopped cashews and peanuts over the top of the pork rack. This will create a nutty, crunchy crust.
6.

Heat a small amount of La Española Olive Oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Padrón peppers and cook until blistered and tender. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
7.

Allow the pork rack to rest for 10 minutes before slicing into individual chops. Serve with the roasted potatoes and Padrón peppers, and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Marinated Rack of Pork with Cumin and Paprika strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. The bold, earthy flavors of cumin and paprika infuse the pork with a smoky depth, while the nuts add a delightful crunch. The accompanying roasted potatoes and blistered Padrón peppers make this dish a complete and satisfying meal, perfect for serving at dinner parties and special occasions.

Why Olive Oil is Essential for Success

La Española Classic Olive Oil works wonders in this recipe, enhancing both its flavor and texture. Here are some of the benefits of using olive oil explained:

Locks in Moisture: Keeps the pork juicy and prevents it from drying out during roasting.
Flavor Carrier: Elevates the spices, garlic, and herbs, ensuring they penetrate every bite.
Healthy Choice: Packed with antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, olive oil adds nutrition without compromising taste.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Pork Rack

Use a Meat Thermometer

To avoid overcooking or undercooking, use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The ideal internal temperature for pork is 145°F. Allow the meat to rest after cooking to retain its juices.

Baste Regularly

Basting the pork and potatoes with the pan juices ensures a moist, flavorful finish and helps create a golden crust.

Don’t Forget the Vegetables

Monitor the baby potatoes during cooking to ensure they don’t overcook. Remove them early if necessary, and return them to the pan during the last 10 minutes to reheat.

The Importance of Nuts and Padrón Peppers

Adding Texture and Flavor with Nuts

The chopped cashews and peanuts bring a delightful crunch to the pork, complementing its tender texture. Their roasted, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the paprika and cumin seasoning.

Why Padrón Peppers Work

Padrón peppers add a smoky, slightly tangy flavor to the dish. Their blistered skin contrasts with the tender pork and potatoes, creating a balanced side that enhances the main dish.

How to Customize This Recipe

Experiment with Nuts

Not a fan of cashews or peanuts? Substitute with almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts for a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

Add a Spicy Kick

For those who enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the spice rub.

Explore Different Vegetables

Consider adding roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or parsnips for more variety and color on your plate.

Perfect Pairings: Side Dish Ideas

Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pork.
Grain Options: Serve with wild rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Store

Refrigerate leftover pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Store roasted potatoes and Padrón peppers separately to retain their texture.

How to Reheat

Reheat pork slices gently in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil to keep them moist. Warm potatoes and peppers in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Roast Meat Recipes

Planning on entertaining any time soon? It’s important to equip yourself with crowd-pleasing recipes that will make your feast stand out, and that’s where roasted meat recipes come in.

One dish that never fails to please is Roasted Ham cooked to perfection. Our easy-to-follow recipe is made with La Española Classic Olive Oil, making for a succulent and tender finish to the ham.

If you’re expecting a crowd at your feast, this Roasted Turkey with Apples is the perfect dish to serve. Made with La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil, it accentuates the natural flavors of the turkey and helps it to absorb the sweetness of the apples. Whether you’re planning for the holiday season, or simply want to put a satisfying spread for friends and family, this dish is perfect.

For more recipe ideas and expert tips, check out our blog.