Ripchen Food

KASSLER RIPPCHEN (SMOKED PORK LOIN, GERMAN STYLE)

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350F.
• Place meat in medium size roasting pan with drip tray and insert a meat thermometer.
• Add 1/2 inch of water to bottom of pan.
• Insert cloves every square inch of the meat.
• Sprinkle top of meat with brown sugar.
• Roast covered, in oven for 20 minutes per pound or until inserted thermometer reaches 165F.
• Uncover meat the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
• When meat is done, remove from pan and set aside in a warm place.
• Remove drip tray.
• Combine butter with flour; mix until smooth.
• Gradually add to drippings and cook stirring regularly, over medium heat until thickened (about three minutes).
• Gravy should be medium to thin consistency.
• Slice and serve meat with gravy and potato dumplings.

BEETS WITH CREAMY BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE AND MINT

Steps:

• Wrap the garlic cloves together in a piece of parchment paper; wrap each beet separately in parchment. Place the garlic and beets in a microwave-safe dish and cook for 3 minutes. Remove the garlic and set aside, still wrapped. Continue to cook the beets in intervals of 2 minutes, until they can be easily pierced with a knife, 8 to 10 minutes. Let sit wrapped in parchment to complete the cooking process and until cool enough to handle, about 15 minutes.
• Meanwhile, whisk together the yogurt, broth, vinegar, oil and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Peel the garlic cloves, mash completely and whisk into the vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper. (Alternatively, make the vinaigrette with the microwave-roasted garlic up to a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to blend. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving.)
• Peel the beets using a paring knife and cut into wedges or slices. Arrange on a platter, drizzle with the vinaigrette and sprinkle with the mint and pistachios. Serve immediately, while still warm.