Imagine a dish so tender it falls apart with the gentlest touch of a fork, so flavorful it transports you straight to a Southern kitchen where culinary magic happens. This Smothered Pork Roast with Rice isn't just a meal—it's an experience that combines rich, slow-cooked traditions with mouthwatering flavors that will have your family begging for seconds. Get ready to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast that celebrates the heart and soul of Southern cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork roast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 3-4 lbs of pork roast, 1 chopped onion, 2 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper to taste, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the pork roast.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork roast in the skillet.
- Brown the pork roast on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. This step is crucial as it adds flavor to the meat.
- Once the pork roast is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- After the onions are cooked, return the pork roast to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure the liquid covers at least half of the roast.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and let it cook for about
- 5 to 2 hours. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) and is tender enough to easily shred with a fork.
- Once the pork roast is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- While the pork is resting, you can prepare the cooked rice if it’s not already done. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with a little salt if desired.
- To serve, slice the pork roast and place it on a plate alongside a generous scoop of rice. Spoon some of the delicious broth and onions over the top of the pork and rice for added flavor.
- Enjoy your Smothered Pork Roast with Rice, savoring the rich flavors of Southern cuisine!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Select a well-marbled pork roast like shoulder or Boston butt for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Brown Perfectly: Take time to brown the meat thoroughly. This crucial step develops a rich, caramelized exterior that locks in incredible flavor.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Cooking at a lower temperature (325°F) ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender without drying out.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Don't guess! Ensure your pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.
- Let it Rest: Always let the roast rest 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a moist and succulent result.
- Enhance the Broth: For extra depth, consider adding a splash of red wine or a few cloves of minced garlic to the cooking liquid.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dish actually tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
