Roast pork is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Whether it’s a Sunday roast or a special occasion, there are plenty of sides and sauces that go well with roast pork. Choosing the right accompaniments can truly elevate the flavor of the dish and make it a meal to remember.
While traditional sides like roasted potatoes, carrots, and green beans are always a good choice, there are other less common options that can liven up your plate. From sweet and savory fruit sauces to crispy salads and flavorful grains, there is no shortage of options to pair with roast pork. In this article, we will explore some of the best sides and sauces to complement this classic dish and give your taste buds a treat.
Classic Side Dishes for Roast Pork
Roast pork is a classic comfort food that is guaranteed to please. But the succulent taste of roast pork is not enough. It needs some delicious side dishes to complement its flavor and complete the meal. Classic side dishes go hand in hand with roast pork, they provide a balanced meal and elevate the taste of the meat.
Some classic side dishes that go well with roast pork are roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce. Roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness to the meal and perfectly balance out the savory taste of the pork. Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that provides a smooth and rich flavor that complements the texture of roast pork. And who can forget about apple sauce? This sweet and tangy condiment is a traditional pairing with the pork roast and provides an extra layer of flavor to the meal. These classic sides are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a celebratory feast.
Creative Pairings for Roast Pork
Roast pork is a versatile dish that pairs well with a range of flavors. While classic pairings include applesauce, roasted root vegetables, and mashed potatoes, there are many creative ways to enhance the flavor profile of this mouthwatering dish.
For a unique twist, try pairing roast pork with figs, pears, or cranberries. Figs bring a sweet and chewy texture that complements the savory taste of the pork. Pears bring freshness and juiciness to the plate, while cranberries bring tartness that balances out the richness of the pork. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon, cumin, or paprika to give your roast pork a unique flavor. Roast pork goes well with a range of drinks, including red wines, hard ciders, and beer. With a little creativity, you can make your roast pork a show-stopping main course that will leave your guests wanting more.
Sauces and Flavors that Complement Roast Pork
Sauces and flavors are an important aspect of any roast pork dish. They can enhance the taste of the meat and add a depth of flavor that is otherwise lacking. A classic pairing with roast pork is apple sauce, which provides a sweet and tart contrast to the savory meat. Mustard-based sauces like Dijon or whole grain mustard also work well with pork, adding a tangy kick to the dish.
Another flavor that complements roast pork is rosemary. The herb can be used as a rub for the meat, or infused into sauces and marinades. It provides a fragrant and earthy flavor that pairs well with the rich taste of pork. Other herbs like thyme, sage, and oregano also work well with the meat and can enhance its natural flavors. When it comes to sauces and flavors that complement roast pork, it’s all about finding the right balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that work together to create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options to Serve With Roast Pork
Vegetarian and vegan options to serve with roast pork exist for those who are looking for a meatless alternative. Grilled or roasted vegetables provide a healthy and nutritious complement to roast pork for a vegetarian or vegan dinner party. Roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, and butternut squash pair particularly well with pork, as do Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and green beans.
Another option is to create a selection of dips and salads. A vibrant beetroot hummus made using chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, and roasted beetroot is a great addition to a pork roast. For those who prefer something lighter, opt for a salad made up of mixed greens, apples, roasted carrots, and toasted almonds, or a citrusy quinoa salad. There is no shortage of options when it comes to vegetarian and vegan recipes, so you can serve up a delicious and satisfying meal to please everyone’s palate.
International Dishes to Accompany Roast Pork
Roast pork dishes are famous worldwide, and every culture has a unique way of preparing and serving it. For instance, in China, roast pork belly, also known as siu yuk, is a popular dish in weddings and other special occasions. Koreans enjoy their roast pork dish, called samgyeopsal-gui, by grilling it and serving it with lettuce leaves for wrapping and various dipping sauces. While in the Philippines, the roast pork dish or lechon is roasted on a spit, and it is a star in any Filipino celebration.
Moving to the west, in the United States, roast pork has several variations. There is roast pork tenderloin and pork shoulder, and they can be served with different kinds of sauces and sides. In Europe, Spaniards relish in Cochinillo Asado, which is a whole roasted pig, while the Italians prepare porchetta by wrapping whole pig meats with herbs and spices and roasting them for hours. All of these international dishes create unique flavors that elevate the taste of the succulent and juicy roast pork.
Wine and Beer Suggestions for Roast Pork
Wine and beer are always fantastic accompaniments to a good meal, and roast pork is no different. With its rich and complex flavors, roast pork pairs well with a variety of drinks.
When it comes to wine, a full-bodied red is the way to go. A Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot will complement the hearty flavor of the pork, while a Pinot Noir or Chardonnay will add a touch of elegance to the dish. For beer lovers, a traditional ale or lager will do the trick. A dark beer, like a stout or porter, will bring out the bold flavors of the roast pork and create a perfect balance of taste. Likewise, a light beer, such as a pilsner or lager, is refreshing and complements the dish perfectly. Whatever your preference, there is a wine or beer to pair perfectly with roast pork.
Desserts That Go Great With Pork-Based Mains
There’s nothing quite like ending a delicious meal with a sweet treat. When it comes to pork-based mains, there are plenty of dessert options that pair perfectly with this savory meat. From fruity desserts to rich and decadent ones, here are some ideas to satisfy your sweet tooth after enjoying roast pork.
For a light and refreshing option, consider serving a fruit-based dessert like apple crisp or poached pears. The sweetness of the fruit complements the richness of the pork and leaves a clean, fresh taste in your mouth. Alternatively, you can opt for a richer dessert like chocolate mousse or bread pudding, which will provide a decadent finish to your meal. Whatever dessert you choose, make sure to serve it with a hot cup of coffee or tea to round out the perfect ending to your pork-based feast.
Final Words
Roast pork is a versatile dish that can pair well with many different types of flavors and ingredients. Whether you prefer to go for the classic apple sauce or want to try something new like a mustard glaze or a tangy chutney, there are plenty of options to choose from that can elevate your roast pork to the next level.
In the end, the perfect pairing for roast pork ultimately comes down to personal preference. Take some time to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find the combinations that work best for you. With a little bit of creativity and imagination, you can make roast pork a standout dish in any meal. So go ahead, get yourself a juicy cut of pork and start exploring the possibilities!