Whole roasted pork stuffed with wild fennel, garlic, and herbs from the hills of Ariccia. This iconic high protein carnivore mediterranean dish is a family feast centerpiece.
Butterfly and score the flesh side of the pork belly with a sharp knife to ensure even seasoning and proper rolling.
Prepare an herb paste by mincing garlic, rosemary, and wild fennel fronds, then combine with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Rub the herb paste generously over the pork loin and the inside of the pork belly, ensuring every surface is covered; let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
Lay the pork loin on the seasoned pork belly, roll tightly with the skin outside, and tie securely with butcher’s twine at 2-inch intervals for even cooking.
Let the porchetta rest at room temperature while preheating the oven to 475°F. Place on a rack over a roasting pan, roast skin-side up at 475°F for 30 minutes to start the crackling, then reduce to 325°F and continue roasting for 2.5 to 3 hours until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Rest the porchetta, uncovered, for 30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and ensure a crispier skin before slicing with a serrated knife.