I like to have friends for homecooked dinner, but I also like to be able to enjoy it.
The meal has to be simple to prepare, somewhat familiar, but with an unusual twist and to be oven-to-table ready. This is one of my recipes that fit the bill – Hardal pork.
I called it that because Hardal means mustard and Hardalova is my maiden name, get it?
3 lbs of pork shoulder – boneless, fat trimmed, cubed to 2-inch pieces.
This is a part where you get your spouse involved.
1 lb smoked cheese – Gouda or Gruyere or a combination of both, sliced
2 cups parsley leaves, chopped
2 tbs Dijon mustard
salt and freshly ground black pepper
Season the meat with a little salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix the parsley and the mustard. Line the bottom and halfway up the side of a shallow lidded oven dish with slices of cheese. Arrange the meat in layers and in the middle create a well and fill it with the parsley/mustard mixture. The flavors will infuse the meat while cooking. Close with a lid and bake at 375° F for 45 minutes. If there is too much liquid, remove some with a basting syringe to a bowl.
Continue cooking open until the meat is tender to fork.
For more impressive presentation, place a large inverted platter on top of the dish. Call your strong husband to turn it upside down, giving him a chance to participate.
If husband not available, ask a guest for help – take your chance to flirt.
There should be just enough for the perfect number eight for a dinner party.
This rich meal could be balanced with a neutral wilted Swiss chard, plain noodles and slightly chilled refreshing Chianti.
Serves 6-8.