Craving a taste of Philadelphia's iconic culinary scene? Look no further! This recipe brings the deliciousness of a classic Philly roast pork sandwich right to your kitchen. Forget greasy takeout – this homemade version is packed with flavor, surprisingly easy to make, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. Get ready to experience the juicy, tender roast pork, the tangy sharpness of the provolone, and the satisfying crunch of the peppers – all nestled between a perfectly toasted roll. This is comfort food at its finest, and a delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Optional: Hot pepper flakes for extra spice
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Pork
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and brown on all sides. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Step 2: Simmering the Pork
Once browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Oven Roasting
Cover the skillet and roast for 2-2.5 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. If the liquid reduces too much during cooking, add a little more chicken broth.
Step 4: Assembling the Sandwiches
Once the pork is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and shred the pork directly in the skillet using two forks. Stir in the sliced bell peppers. You can leave some of the cooking liquid in for extra moisture.
Step 5: Toasting and Serving
While the pork simmers, preheat your oven broiler or toast the hoagie rolls until golden brown. Place a generous portion of the shredded pork mixture onto the bottom half of each roll, top with provolone cheese, and broil for a minute or two until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Add the top half of the roll and enjoy your delicious homemade Philly roast pork sandwich!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork cubes in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and basil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier sandwich, add a pinch of hot pepper flakes to the pork mixture.
- You can substitute other cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or mozzarella, for the provolone.
- Add sauteed mushrooms or onions to the sandwich for extra layers of flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 Protein: 30-40g Fat: 20-30g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. It's a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a taste of Philadelphia's iconic cuisine from the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!