Pork is a versatile meat that can be paired with a variety of herbs and spices. Using a mixed herb blend is a great way to add lots of flavor to pork dishes. The key is choosing herbs that will complement the pork rather than overpower it.
What herbs go well with pork?
Some of the most popular fresh herbs to use with pork include:
- Rosemary – Provides an earthy, pine-like flavor.
- Thyme – Offers a woodsy, minty taste.
- Sage – Has a savory, slightly peppery flavor.
- Oregano – Contributes a bold, aromatic flavor.
- Marjoram – Provides a delicate, lemony, mint-like taste.
- Parsley – Brightens up dishes with its fresh, grassy flavor.
- Cilantro – Adds a bright, citrusy flavor.
Dried versions of any of these herbs can also be used. Other good options include tarragon, basil, dill, and chives.
What herb blends pair well with pork?
Some classic mixed herb blends that are perfect for pork include:
- Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. It adds big Italian flavor.
- Herbes de Provence – Contains herbs from the Provence region of France like rosemary, thyme, and lavender. It provides a floral, aromatic flavor.
- Jamaican Jerk Spice – A spicy, robust blend containing allspice, thyme, garlic, onions, chilies, and more. It adds Caribbean flair.
- Poultry Seasoning – Rosemary, sage, marjoram, and thyme create a rubbed perfect for pork.
- Fines Herbes – A French blend with subtle flavors from herbs like parsley, chives, tarragon, and chervil.
Experiment with the ingredients in each blend to find the right balance of flavors you enjoy.
What herbs should be avoided with pork?
There are a few herbs that do not pair well with the flavor of pork:
- Lavender – Can taste too perfumed and soapy with pork.
- Lemongrass – Tends to clash with the meaty flavors.
- Mint – Usually overpowers the flavor of pork.
Additionally, curries that contain cloves, cinnamon, cumin and coriander seeds are not the best match for pork. Those warm spices tend to taste better with red meat like beef or lamb.
What are good mixed herb rubs for pork?
Herb rubs add amazing flavor to pork. Here are some tasty mixed herb rub combinations:
| Rub Name | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Dijon Herb Rub | Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, garlic powder, salt, pepper |
| Spicy Citrus Rub | Brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, orange zest, dried oregano |
| Jamaican Jerk Rub | Brown sugar, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, garlic, onion, salt |
| Juniper Berry & Rosemary Rub | Juniper berries, coarse salt, whole black peppercorns, rosemary, garlic powder |
| Vietnamese 5 Spice Rub | Ground cinnamon, star anise, fennel seed, black pepper, cloves, brown sugar |
Apply the dry rub generously onto pork shoulders, loins, chops and more. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking so the flavors infuse into the meat.
What are the best mixed herb marinades for pork?
Marinating pork in an herb infused liquid is an easy way to make it juicy and flavorful. Excellent mixed herb marinade options include:
| Marinade Name | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Greek Yogurt Marinade | Plain greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, dried mint |
| Jamaican Jerk Marinade | Orange juice, soy sauce, thyme, allspice, habanero peppers, garlic, onion |
| Chimichurri Marinade | Parsley, cilantro, oregano, garlic, shallots, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper |
| Hoisin Marinade | Hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, chili flakes |
| Citrus Soy Marinade | Soy sauce, olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, rosemary, garlic |
Marinate pork cuts like chops, loin roasts, and tenderloins for at least 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. Turn the meat occasionally so it marinates evenly.
What are the best mixed herb recipes for pork?
There are endless options for making delicious pork dishes with mixed herbs. Here are some tasty recipes to try:
- Pork Tenderloin with Herbes de Provence – Pork roasted with onion, garlic, mushrooms and coated in the floral French herb blend.
- Jamaican Jerk Pork Kebabs – Pork chunks marinated in spicy Jamaican jerk blend then skewered and grilled.
- Herb Crusted Pork Chops – Thyme, rosemary and Dijon give a flavorful crust to pan seared or baked pork chops.
- Citrus Herb Pork Roast – A pork shoulder roast infused with flavors from garlic, lemon, thyme and oregano.
- Hoisin Pork & Herb Stir Fry – Strips of pork sautéed in a hoisin ginger sauce with veggies & fresh herbs like basil, cilantro or mint.
Get creative with mixed herbs in wet rubs, dry rubs, marinades and more to take your pork dishes to the next level!
What are good side dishes with mixed herb pork?
Mixed herb pork entrees pair beautifully with these fresh, flavorful side dish options:
- Roasted Vegetables – The hearty herbs complement veggies like potatoes, carrots, parsnips or brussels sprouts.
- Rice Pilaf – Herb accented pork stands up well to a rice pilaf with lemon, herbs & garlic.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy, cinnamon-dusted sweet potato fries balance the savory herb flavors.
- Green Salad – A fresh salad with vinaigrette and crumbs of feta or goat cheese.
- Garlic Bread – Slices of crusty bread roasted with garlic butter and herbs.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and try pork with unique herb blends alongside new veggie sides, grains and salads.
Conclusion
Mixed herbs offer an easy way to add layers of flavor to pork entrees. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage and oregano all pair beautifully with pork. Italian seasoning, Herbs de Provence, jerk seasoning and more can infuse pork with flavor. Apply them as a rub, marinade or blend them right into a recipe. Served alongside fresh vegetable sides, herb crusted pork makes for a delicious, well-rounded meal.