Lomo de orza

Preserved Pork Loin

An orza is a large earthenware, jarlike container with a round opening at the top. Traditionally, it has been used to preserve foods in lard, especially pork after the yearly matanza, or "slaughtering". The advent of refrigeration has made orzas nearly obsolete, but the wonderful flavor of this dish will make you want to return to the past. You can use an earthenware crock or similar container in the absence of a classic orza. And don't be concerned about the large amount of lard, as the bulk of it is used only to prevent spoilage. Ask your butcher for high-quality pork lard for the best result.

• Serves 8

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lard
• 1 boneless iberico pork loin, about 2 pounds, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 15 cloves garlic, peeled but left whole
• 2 thyme sprigs
• 4 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh or dried oregano leaves

Preparation

In a large, deep skillet or saute pan, heat 3 tablespoons of the lard over high heat. Lay the pork slices in the pan, season with salt and pepper, and fry, turning once or twice, for about 2 minutes total, or until browned on both sides. 

Add the remaining lard to the pan. When it melts, add the garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and oregano. The pork should be submerged in the lard. Decrease the heat to medium and cook the pork for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.

Remove the pan from the heat, let cool slightly, and transfer its contents to an earthenware crock. The meat must be fully covered by the lard, so arrange the slices as needed. Let stand until cool and the lard has solidified. Cover and store in a cool cellar or other cool area or in the refrigerator. The preserved pork will keep for up to several months.

To serve, remove as many pork slices as desired from the lard and heat them briefly, turning as needed, in a skillet over high heat. Serve hot.

See also

Ibérico Grilling Pork Sampler: This quartet of delectable, juicy Ibérico de Bellota cuts of pork is made for the grill. Comprised of Spain’s finest free-range, acorn-fed pork, this combo is ideal for entertaining guests at a summer barbeque or for a Spanish-style family gathering on a lazy Sunday. Ibérico de Bellota pork comes from free-range, acorn-fed Ibérico pigs indigenous to Spain. They live an ideal life munching on grass and acorns under cork and holm oak trees. Their diet provides a complex flavor and a fat that literally melts in your mouth, while exercise provides the beautiful marbling that distinguishes Ibérico pork from any other.

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