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Pork Roast with Crackling — traditional dish from Copenhagen, Denmark
Main course Meat

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

🔥850kcal
💪65gProtein
🌾30gCarbs
🥑50gFat
🌿6gFibre
⚖️400 gServing

* Per serving · 400 g. May vary.

Allergens

🌾 Gluten

Pork Roast with Crackling

How to order / say it
Say it Flæskesteg — [FLES-ke-stigh]
Order I'd like the flæskesteg, please.
Locally Jeg vil gerne have flæskesteg, tak.
Say locally

A traditional Danish roast pork with crispy crackling, typically served with red cabbage and potatoes.

Why try it?

Flæskesteg epitomizes the Danish love for hearty, homely meals. It’s often the centerpiece of family gatherings, especially during Christmas, illustrating comfort and togetherness in Danish culinary tradition.

How it tastes

The roast is succulent yet crispy, with a rich umami flavor coming from the seasoned crackling. Complimented by the sweetness of red cabbage, it’s a dish of contrasts in texture and flavor—crispy, tender, and flavorful.

Origin & History — first documented: 1750

Originating in the 18th century among Danish peasantry, flæskesteg became a favorite for special occasions. Its popularity increased as a Christmas staple in the 19th century, cementing its status in Danish festive rituals.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 🥩 800 g pork roast
  • 🧂 10 g salt
  • 🧂 5 g pepper
  • 🥕 300 g red cabbage
  • 🥕 400 g potatoes
  • 🍯 20 g sugar

Method

  1. 1 Score and salt the pork skin, and season the meat.
  2. 2 Roast in a preheated oven for 90 minutes until the skin is crisp.
  3. 3 While roasting, prepare the red cabbage by slowly cooking with sugar.
  4. 4 Serve the sliced pork with red cabbage and boiled potatoes.

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All Europe recipes — Denmark — Copenhagen — Pork Roast with Crackling
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