Family Recipe: Pork Knuckle with Lentils

Ingredients:

• 1 pork knuckle, skin on
• 2 cups brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 onions, peeled and chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the pork knuckle generously with salt and black pepper. In a large Dutch oven or roasting pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork knuckle and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the carrots, lentils, bay leaves, thyme, and paprika to the pot. Add enough water to cover everything by 1 inch (2.5 cm).
5. Bring the pot to a boil, then cover with a tight-fitting lid or foil and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 2 and a half to 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls off the bone.
6. Remove the pork knuckle from the pot and set aside. Discard the bay leaves.
7. Using an immersion blender, blend the lentils and vegetables in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the lentils and vegetables to a blender and blend until smooth, then return the mixture to the pot.
8. Serve the pork knuckle over a bed of lentils and vegetables, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Verdict and Serving Suggestions:

This mouth-watering Pork Knuckle with Lentils is a comforting, hearty dish that will keep your family warm and satisfied during any dinner occasion. The pork knuckle is perfectly seasoned and baked until tender and juicy, while the lentils and vegetables provide a creamy and flavorful side dish. Serve with a side salad or freshly baked bread to complete the meal. This is a great recipe to make for a family gathering or special event.