Gorjansko Bocotek

Introduction to Gorjansko Bocotek

The Gorjansko Bocotek is a traditional dish hailing from the small village of Gorjansko, nestled in the picturesque hills of central Slovenia. This dish has been passed down through generations, rooted deeply in the culinary traditions of the region. The primary ingredient, pork knuckle, is lovingly prepared alongside local vegetables and herbs, making it not only a hearty meal but also a cultural experience. As you prepare Gorjansko Bocotek, you are joining a historical lineage that celebrates the land's bounty and invites you to taste its unique flavors.

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for an authentic Gorjansko Bocotek. Here's what you will need:

• Pork knuckle - 1 large piece
• Onions - 2 medium-sized, chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Carrots - 3 medium-sized, sliced
• Potatoes - 4 medium-sized, cubed
• Chicken broth - 2 cups
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Bay leaves - 2 leaves
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Preparing the Gorjansko Bocotek requires careful attention to the quality of each ingredient. Here's how you begin:

1. Start by washing and patting dry the pork knuckle. Score the skin to allow flavors to penetrate.
2. In a large bowl, combine salt, black pepper, and thyme. Rub this mixture generously over the pork knuckle.
3. Cover and let it marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Once marinated, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
5. As the oven heats, chop the onions and carrots, and cube the potatoes.

Cooking Process

After preparing the ingredients, follow these steps for cooking:

1. In a large oven-safe dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent.
2. Add the carrots and potatoes. Stir for about 5 minutes till they are slightly softened.
3. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the bay leaves.
4. Place the marinated pork knuckle atop the vegetables, ensuring the scored skin faces up.
5. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the oven.
6. Bake in the oven for approximately 2.5 hours, or until the pork knuckle is tender and easily pulls away with a fork. It's crucial to keep a cooking timer handy to monitor the progress.
7. For a crispy skin, uncover the dish during the last 15 minutes of cooking at a slightly higher temperature, around 220°C (428°F).

Enjoying Gorjansko Bocotek

Once your Gorjansko Bocotek is perfectly cooked, it's time to savor this delightful dish:

1. Remove the pork knuckle from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with the roasted vegetables from the dish, allowing their flavors to complement the succulent meat.
3. Pair your Gorjansko Bocotek with a glass of local Slovenian wine or a refreshing herbal tea to enhance the experience.
4. Enjoy with a side of freshly baked bread, allowing you to soak up the delectable juices.

With each bite, you'll be transported to the serene landscapes of Gorjansko, a testament to Slovenia's rich culinary heritage.