Prepare the meat:
If the wild boar leg is whole, start by making small incisions in the meat, so that the flavors can penetrate better. Massage the meat with salt, pepper and a sprig of chopped rosemary. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Marinade:
In a bowl, mix the honey, mustard, balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Add a crushed garlic clove and a sprig of rosemary. Pour this marinade over the wild boar meat and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, turning the meat every now and then to ensure even marinating.
Cooking the meat:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (static) or 170°C (fan assisted).
In a large frying pan, heat a drizzle of oil and brown the wild boar leg on all sides until golden brown. This helps seal in the meat juices.
Transfer the browned leg to a baking tray and pour half of the marinade over it. Also add a glass of red wine and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Baking in the oven:
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and cook the wild boar leg in the oven for about 1.5-2 hours, depending on the size of the meat. During cooking, every 30 minutes, turn the meat and baste it with the cooking juices to keep it soft.
After about 1.5 hours, remove the aluminum foil and let the meat cook for another 30 minutes, so that it becomes golden brown and caramelized thanks to the honey.
Prepare the sauce:
Once the meat is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Meanwhile, strain the cooking juices from the pan into a small saucepan. Reduce the sauce over medium heat until it thickens. If desired, add a spoonful of mustard for a stronger flavour.
Serve:
Slice the wild boar leg and serve with the honey-mustard sauce on top, accompanied by sides such as mashed potatoes, baked potatoes or grilled vegetables.
Tips:
If you want a more intense flavor, you can add freshly ground black pepper or crushed juniper berries to the marinade.
This dish pairs well with a full-bodied red wine such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino or Nero d’Avola.
Wild Boar Thigh with Honey and Mustard is a rich and flavorful dish that will impress your guests with its bold and refined taste. Perfect for special occasions or winter dinners!
