Save This Pork and Aromatic Rhubarb Traybake offers a sophisticated harmony of flavors, blending the savory depth of roasted pork with the bright, sharp tang of seasonal rhubarb. Infused with ginger, orange, and a warm spice blend, this modern European dish is a vibrant and comforting meal that comes together beautifully in a single pan.
Save As the ingredients roast, the rhubarb softens into a jam-like consistency that acts as a natural sauce for the pork, while the red onions caramelize to add a touch of sweetness. The addition of fresh orange juice and zest ensures every bite is bright and aromatic.
Ingredients
- Pork: 800 g (1.75 lb) boneless pork shoulder or loin, cut into thick slices, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Rhubarb & Aromatics: 300 g (10 oz) rhubarb, trimmed and cut into 5 cm (2-inch) pieces, 2 red onions, peeled and cut into wedges, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, grated, 1 orange, zest and juice, 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Spices: 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp ground fennel, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Extras: 3 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a bowl, toss pork slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, coriander, fennel, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Arrange on one side of the baking tray.
- Step 3
- In another bowl, combine rhubarb, red onions, garlic, ginger, orange zest and juice, and honey. Toss well to coat, then spread out on the tray beside the pork.
- Step 4
- Roast for 35 minutes, turning the pork and stirring the rhubarb mixture halfway through.
- Step 5
- Increase oven temperature to 220°C (430°F) and roast for an additional 10–15 minutes, until pork is golden and cooked through and rhubarb is tender and caramelized.
- Step 6
- Rest pork for 5 minutes, then slice. Serve everything on a platter, sprinkled with fresh herbs.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use a large baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If your rhubarb is particularly tart, you can adjust the sweetness by adding a little extra honey before the final stage of roasting. Ensure you have a grater on hand for the fresh ginger and orange zest to release their maximum aroma.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly versatile; you can substitute the pork with chicken thighs if you prefer poultry. For an even deeper flavor profile, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the rhubarb mixture before it goes into the oven. If you choose to use maple syrup instead of honey, double-check the label to ensure it is pure and allergen-free.
Serviervorschläge
The savory and tangy juices from the traybake are perfect for soaking into a side of fluffy couscous or roasted potatoes. For a lighter meal, serve the pork and rhubarb alongside a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette.
Save Garnished with a handful of fresh parsley or cilantro, this Pork and Aromatic Rhubarb Traybake is a striking centerpiece. It delivers a perfect balance of protein and vibrant produce, making it a reliable and impressive recipe for any occasion.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?
Yes, pork loin works well but may cook faster than shoulder. Check for doneness after 30 minutes to avoid drying out. Pork shoulder has more fat and stays juicier during longer roasting.
- → What can I substitute for rhubarb if it's not in season?
Try tart apples, cranberries, or even sour cherries. Reduce honey slightly as these may be less tart than rhubarb. The goal is to maintain that sweet-tart balance.
- → How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F). The pork should be slightly pink in the center and juices should run clear. Let it rest before slicing.
- → Can I prepare this traybake ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients and marinate the pork up to 24 hours ahead. Assemble on the tray just before roasting for best results. Leftovers reheat well in a moderate oven.
- → What sides pair best with this dish?
Roasted potatoes, fluffy couscous, or quinoa work beautifully to soak up the caramelized juices. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans add freshness to balance the rich flavors.
- → Can I make this with chicken instead?
Absolutely. Use bone-in chicken thighs for best results as they stay moist. Cooking time may be slightly shorter—check after 30 minutes and adjust as needed.