Orange Roast

The orange roast is a dish that combines the sweetness of oranges with the rich flavor of meat, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. Here is the recipe for a tasty Italian-style orange roast.

Ingredients

• 1 kg of pork or beef roast (depending on preference)
• 4 untreated oranges
• 2 onions
• 2 carrots
• 2 celery stalks
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 glass of dry white wine
• Rosemary (optional)
• Meat or vegetable broth as needed

Preparation

1. Take the roast and tie the meat with kitchen twine to maintain its shape during cooking.

2. Wash the oranges well, then grate the zest and squeeze the juice.

3. Clean and chop the onions, carrots, and celery into large pieces.

4. In a large pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil and brown the roast on all sides until it is well colored.

5. Add the chopped vegetables and garlic cloves, letting them sauté for a few minutes.

6. Deglaze with the white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.

7. Add the orange juice and zest, salt, pepper, and rosemary if desired.

8. Cover and cook on medium-low heat, occasionally moistening with broth to prevent the roast from drying out.

9. Cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the meat is tender (cooking time may vary depending on the type and cut of meat).

10. Once cooking is complete, transfer the roast to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

11. Meanwhile, blend the vegetables and the cooking liquid with an immersion blender to make a sauce to serve with the roast.

Serve the orange roast sliced, accompanied by its sauce and, if desired, with a side of roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes.

Facts

The roast with oranges is a dish that lends itself to many regional variations in Italy. In Sicily, for example, you might find additions like olives or wild fennel, which further enhance the connection with Mediterranean flavors.