Mediterranean Diet Homemade Pork Tocino
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this healthier spin on a classic favorite: Mediterranean Diet Homemade Pork Tocino. Made with tender pork shoulder, this recipe combines the sweetness of honey, the smoky warmth of sweet paprika, and aromatic garlic powder, balanced by the tanginess of white wine vinegar and the fresh zest of lemon. Chopped oregano and extra virgin olive oil elevate the flavor profile, keeping it in tune with the Mediterranean diet's commitment to wholesome, heart-healthy ingredients. The pork is marinated to perfection, then simmered and caramelized for a mouthwateringly tender and lightly crispy finish. Ready in just 35 minutes (with a little prep ahead), this tocino pairs beautifully with a crisp Mediterranean salad or bed of fresh greens, making it a flavorful, guilt-free crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend treat!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams pork shoulder
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Begin by slicing the pork shoulder into 1/4-inch thick pieces. This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat easily.
In a large bowl, combine honey, sweet paprika, garlic powder, ground black pepper, sea salt, white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, chopped fresh oregano, and lemon zest. Mix well until a uniform paste is formed.
Add the pork slices to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Once marinated, remove the pork slices from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the water and marinated pork slices. Arrange the pork in a single layer, cooking them in batches if necessary.
Simmer gently until the water evaporates and the pork begins to brown, about 15 minutes.
Once the water has evaporated, increase the heat to medium-high. Add any remaining marinade from the bowl to the skillet.
Cook for an additional 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork slices are caramelized, lightly crispy on the edges, and cooked through.
Serve immediately with a side of fresh greens or a Mediterranean salad to complement the tocino.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1536 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 87.8 g | 113% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.7 g | 123% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 441 mg | 147% | |
| Sodium | 2696 mg | 117% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 61.0 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.2 g | ||
| Protein | 119.7 g | 239% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 216 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 7.4 mg | 41% | |
| Potassium | 2024 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
