Discover the perfect Pork Roast (Cepta Cūkgaļa) recipe that brings out the rich, savory flavors of tender pork seasoned with aromatic caraway seeds. This traditional dish is slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful roast that will impress your family and friends. Learn how to make this classic recipe with step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving the best results.

Ingredients:

- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or pork loin

- 2 tablespoons caraway seeds

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 tablespoon salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 tablespoon paprika

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1 onion, sliced

- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

- 2 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

  - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Pork:

  - Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a crispier exterior.

Season the Meat:

  - In a small bowl, mix the caraway seeds, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the pork roast, ensuring it is well-coated.

Sear the Pork:

  - Heat a large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast on all sides until it is browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps to lock in the juices.

Add Vegetables and Broth:

  - Remove the pork roast from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, carrots, and potatoes. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes to start softening the vegetables.

  - Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.

Roast the Pork:

  - Place the seared pork roast on top of the vegetables in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

  - Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender. Baste the roast with the pan juices occasionally.

Rest and Serve:

  - Remove the pork roast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier roast.

  - Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve with the roasted vegetables and pan juices.

Enjoy your flavorful and tender Pork Roast (Cepta Cūkgaļa)!

Nutritional Values:

Pork Shoulder or Pork Loin:

 - Calories: 206

 - Protein: 22g

 - Fat: 13g

 - Saturated Fat: 5g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in Protein: Essential for muscle growth and repair.

 - Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Provides important nutrients like B vitamins (B12, niacin), zinc, and selenium, which support overall health and immune function.

Caraway Seeds:

 - Calories: 22

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: Caraway seeds are known to aid digestion and reduce bloating.

 - Antioxidants: They contain compounds that help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.

Garlic:

 - Calories: 4

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fiber: 0.1g

Benefits:

 - Heart Health: Garlic can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

 - Immune Boosting: Contains allicin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Olive Oil:

 - Calories: 119

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 14g

 - Saturated Fat: 2g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - Heart Health: Rich in monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for cardiovascular health.

 - Antioxidants: Contains vitamin E and polyphenols that combat inflammation and oxidative stress.

Salt:

 - Sodium: 2,325mg

Benefits:

 - Electrolyte Balance: Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Flavor Enhancement: Improves taste, which can help reduce the need for additional fats or sugars.

Black Pepper:

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: Helps stimulate digestive enzymes and improves digestion.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Contains piperine, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Paprika:

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Rich in Antioxidants: High in vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for skin health and immune function.

 - Anti-Inflammatory: Contains capsaicin, which may help reduce inflammation.

Chicken Broth:

 - Calories: 12

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Hydration: Provides fluids and electrolytes, contributing to hydration.

 - Nutrient-Rich: Contains minerals and nutrients extracted from chicken bones and meat, which can support overall health.

Onion:

 - Calories: 44

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

 - Heart Health: Onions contain compounds that can help reduce cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health.

 - Antioxidants: Rich in flavonoids and sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Carrots:

 - Calories: 25

 - Protein: 0.6g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Eye Health: High in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A and supports good vision.

 - Digestive Health: Good source of dietary fiber that aids in digestion.

Potatoes:

 - Calories: 130

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 30g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Energy: High in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy.

 - Rich in Nutrients: Contains vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins that support various bodily functions.

Thyme or Rosemary (optional):

 - Calories: 1

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Antioxidants: Both herbs contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

 - Digestive Health: Can aid in digestion and enhance the flavor of dishes.

These ingredients not only enhance the flavor of your pork roast but also provide various nutritional benefits to support a healthy diet.