Ingredients:
- Pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe): 1 (about 3 pounds)
- Tea Rubs: 2 tablespoons (a blend of black tea leaves, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and a pinch of sugar)
- Beer: 1 small bottle
- Onion: 1, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Caraway seeds (or fennel seeds): 1 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Salt: to taste
- Bay leaves: 2
- Thyme: a sprig
- Rosemary: a sprig
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tea Rubs: In a small bowl, mix the black tea leaves, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and sugar. Crush the tea leaves lightly with a mortar and pestle or use a spice grinder to create a fine blend.
- Marinate the Pork Knuckle: Clean the pork knuckle and pat it dry. Rub the tea rubs all over the pork knuckle, ensuring it's well coated. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Place the sliced onion, crushed garlic, and a sprinkle of caraway seeds in a roasting tray. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary for additional flavor.
- Roast the Pork Knuckle: Remove the pork knuckle from the marinade and place it on the prepared tray, skin-side up. Pour the beer around the pork knuckle. Cover with aluminum foil and roast for 1 hour.
- Uncover and Crisp: After an hour, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) to crisp the skin for another 30-45 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork knuckle from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with a side of your choice, such as sauerkraut or potato dumplings, and enjoy with the roasted vegetables and the juices from the tray.
Tips:
- The tea rubs add a unique aroma and depth of flavor to the traditional German-style roasted pork knuckle, enhancing its savory taste.
- For an authentic German touch, serve with sauerkraut and potato dumplings.
- This German-style Roasted Pork Knuckle with Tea Rubs recipe is perfect for a festive meal or a special occasion. The addition of tea rubs creates a memorable and aromatic centerpiece for your table.