A Simple Recipe for Baking Meat in the Oven

This is a straightforward recipe for baking meat in the oven, perfect not only for festive occasions like Easter or Christmas but also for sandwiches.

Shynka is a traditional Ukrainian dish, usually made from pork. A whole piece of meat is marinated, rubbed with spices, and baked in the oven. It can be served hot or cold as a meat platter and is often used for making sandwiches and snacks.

Ukrainian shynka has its counterparts in various cuisines worldwide. In Germany, there’s Schweinsbraten; in Russia, it’s buzhenina. The method is similar, and different meats, from lamb to even bear meat, can be baked this way. The meat is baked in foil, uncovered, or sometimes encased in dough.

Ingredients

For Baking:

• Pork – 1 kg
• Ground coriander – 0.5 tsp
• Sweet paprika (ground) – 1 tsp
• Dried garlic – 1 tsp
• Ground black pepper – 0.5 tsp

For Marinade:

• Water – 1 L
• Bay leaves – 3 pcs
• Salt – 35 g
• Sugar – 1 tsp
• Cloves – 2 buds
• Black pepper (whole) – 6-7 peas

Preparation

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a pot, pour water and immediately add salt, sugar, and all the spices. Bring the marinade to a boil and let it cool down.
2. Marinate the Meat:
   Submerge the meat into the marinade. Let it sit in the fridge for 2 days, turning occasionally.
3. Prepare for Baking:
   Pat the meat dry. Rub it with spices: coriander, paprika, and garlic. Tie it with kitchen string.
4. Bake the Meat:
   Preheat the oven to the maximum temperature (280°C / 536°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper (preferably silicone-coated) and place the meat on top.

   Bake the pork for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, turn off the oven but do not open the door (this is important!).

   Leave the meat in the oven until completely cool, preferably overnight.

Serving:

Your delicious homemade shynka is ready! Chill before serving and slice thinly. Perfect for festive meals or sandwiches.