Can I Cover The Pork Loin With Parma Ham And Oregano While It Cooks?

Our answer

Nigella's Pork Loin With Parma Ham And Oregano (from NIGELLISSIMA) is a delicious way to roast pork, reminiscent of Italian porchetta. The stuffed and rolled pork loin is cooked on a bed or onions or shallots. These absorb the flavour of the meat juices and are then used to make a gravy to serve alongside the pork.

We would avoid covering the pork when it is in the oven as it will tend to steam, rather than roast, and the Parma ham can become a little flaccid. Also, you won't get the caramelization of the pork juices on the bottom of the pan, which is important for a well-flavoured gravy. Instead, we would suggest putting a splash or two of water in the bottom of the roasting pan before you put the pork and onions in the oven. This should prevent the onions from colouring too quickly and the pork juices should still caramelize once the water has evaporated. Keep an eye on the pan and if the onions are becoming too dark towards the end of the cooking time then add an extra splash of water.