Roast Pork with Crispy Crackling

This roast pork with crispy crackling is a showstopping dish featuring tender, juicy meat and a golden, crunchy crust. Achieving the perfect crackling requires simple yet effective preparation, ensuring a delicious balance of texture and flavour. Serve it with your favourite sides for a classic and satisfying meal.

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 20

Servings Portions

Ingredients

2 kg pork shoulder or pork loin /skin-on, bone-in for extra flavour
2 tbsp sea salt coarse
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder optional
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar optional, for enhanced crackling

Instructions

If possible, leave the pork uncovered in the fridge overnight to dry out the skin. If short on time, pat the skin thoroughly dry with paper towels.
Set your oven to 220°C (430°F) fan-forced or 240°C (460°F) conventional.
Using a sharp knife, score the skin in a crisscross pattern or in parallel lines about 1cm apart. Avoid cutting into the meat.
2 kg pork shoulder
Rub the apple cider vinegar over the skin (if using), then massage in the olive oil, salt, black pepper and garlic powder.
2 tbsp sea salt, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp garlic powder
Place the pork on a wire rack in a roasting tray and roast for 30 minutes at high heat to start crisping the crackling.
Reduce the oven to 160°C (320°F) fan-forced or 180°C (350°F) conventional and cook for another 2 – 2.5 hours.
If the crackling starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
For extra crunch, turn the heat back up to 220°C (430°F) fan-forced for the last 15–20 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This keeps the meat juicy and tender.
Slice and serve with your choice of sides, ensuring everyone gets a piece of the crispy crackling!

Notes

Tips for Perfect Crackling

A dry surface is key—always pat the skin dry before roasting.

Salt draws out moisture, helping the skin crisp up beautifully.

A high starting temperature helps blister the skin for that irresistible crunch.

Nutrition