Meat
Intermediate
Sweet and Sour Pork
40 min
Meat
Hard
Recipe of Pork Lechon
Vida Recetas Editorial
Pork Lechon is an iconic dish of Filipino cuisine, known for its crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat. It consists of a whole pig roasted slowly over fire or in the oven, becoming the centerpiece of celebrations and parties. This recipe, although challenging, will guide you step by step to achieve a spectacular result.
Why it works
The key lies in the internal marinade and the cooking method. The pig is stuffed with a mixture of garlic, lemongrass, bay leaves, and spices, which fragrance the meat from within. Injecting a sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and pepper ensures the meat stays tender and tasty. The prolonged roasting at high heat achieves that golden, crispy skin that everyone craves.
Variations and recommendations
In the Philippines, each region has its version, but one of the most popular is Lechon Cebu, known for its herb and spice stuffing. You can adapt the recipe to your taste, adding more spices or adjusting the salt level. It is ideal for special occasions like weddings, Christmas, or family gatherings, and is traditionally served with steamed rice and a sweet and sour sauce called 'lechon sauce'.
Prep
360 min
Ingredients
Directions
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1
Thoroughly clean the whole pig.
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2
Rub salt and garlic inside the pig. Place lemongrass and bay leaves inside the pig.
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3
Stitch the pig's belly to prevent it from opening.
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4
In a large pot, mix soy sauce, vinegar, water, black peppercorns, and more salt.
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5
Boil the mixture, then let it cool down.
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6
Inject the mixture into the pig using a syringe, ensuring it reaches all parts.
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7
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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8
Roast the pig for 3-4 hours or until the skin is crispy.
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9
Serve hot with steamed rice and lechon sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is it to prepare Pork Lechon?
This recipe has a hard difficulty level, which means it's accessible for cooks of all levels.
How long does it take to prepare Pork Lechon?
The preparation time is 360 minutes and the cooking time is minutes.
Can I substitute some ingredients?
Yes, many ingredients can be substituted with similar alternatives. We recommend checking the recipe variations.
How should I store this preparation?
Store the preparation in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Some preparations can be frozen for up to 3 months.
