Every time I make this Sweet and Savory Baked Pork Loin, I’m flooded with memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. The aroma wafting through the house transports me back to Sunday evenings spent around the table, sharing laughter and stories with loved ones. There’s something so heartwarming about cooking a meal that fills not just your stomach but your soul, too. When you try this recipe, I know you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort, and it just might become one of your family’s favorites!
Let’s dive into making this delightful dish. You’ll see how simple it is to prepare a mouthwatering pork loin that’s bursting with flavor. With just the right balance of sweetness from brown sugar and the savory notes from herbs and Dijon mustard, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds.
Ingredients:
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2 to 3 pounds pork loin: This is the star of the show! Choosing a good cut of pork is essential for tenderness and flavor. I love using a nice meaty loin for this dish.
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1/4 cup brown sugar: The sweet touch that complements the savory flavors perfectly. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use regular sugar, but it won’t have quite the same depth of flavor.
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2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a lovely richness to the spice mix we’ll be creating!
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: I swear by Dijon for that little kick of flavor. It really enhances the dish.
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1 teaspoon garlic powder: This gives such a warm and delicious undertone to the pork.
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1/2 teaspoon salt: A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out the best in your pork!
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A must-have for that slight spiciness.
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1/2 teaspoon thyme: I love the herbal aroma this brings. If you have fresh thyme, even better!
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1/2 teaspoon rosemary: Another wonderful herb that pairs perfectly with pork. It just reminds me of summer nights outside with the grill!
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1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness that elevates the flavor profile.
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1/4 cup soy sauce: A touch of umami that rounds out the taste beautifully.
How to Make Sweet and Savory Baked Pork Loin
Let me walk you through the steps. Trust me, you’re going to amaze yourself with how simple and delicious this meal is!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for achieving that perfect roast. While the oven is warming up, you can prepare your ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Spice Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. You want everything to mix together smoothly. I love using a whisk to give it a good spin. It’s like magic watching all those ingredients transform into a fragrant paste!
Step 3: Rub the Mixture on the Pork
Take that gorgeous pork loin and rub the spice mixture all over it. Make sure to cover it evenly. This step is crucial because it ensures that every bite will be packed with flavor. You might get your hands a little messy, but I promise it’s worth it!
Step 4: Prepare the Roasting Pan
Now, place your pork loin in a roasting pan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and soy sauce. Pour this over the pork loin in the pan. It’s such a beautiful sight and smells divine!
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover your roasting pan with foil and bake in that preheated oven for about an hour. This keeps the moisture in and allows the meat to tenderize perfectly.
Step 6: Let It Cook!
After an hour, carefully remove the foil. Now, bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). I love checking the temperature; it gives me a sense of accomplishment!
Step 7: Rest the Pork
Once your pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This is a crucial step—trust me! Letting it rest helps the juices redistribute, ensuring you get succulent slices.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, slice your pork loin into thick pieces and serve warm, drizzled with those tasty pan juices. It’s the grand finale to a beautiful dish!
Why I Love Making This Dish
This Sweet and Savory Baked Pork Loin is a staple in my home, and for good reason. Not only is it delicious, but it also brings everyone together. When I serve it, I see smiles all around the table, and that’s what makes it truly special. Sometimes it’s the simplest meals that create the best memories, don’t you agree?
What You’ll Need
You will need some basic kitchen tools: a good roasting pan, mixing bowls, measuring cups, and a whisk. If you have a meat thermometer, it’s a great investment for knowing when your pork is just right. You want it to be juicy and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking.
- Mix the brown sugar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary in a bowl.
- Rub the mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it well.
- Place the pork in a roasting pan and whisk together apple cider vinegar and soy sauce. Pour it over the loin.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes until it reaches the correct temperature.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make your pork even juicier, consider using bone-in pork loin. The bone adds extra flavor and moisture during cooking. Also, make sure not to skip the resting time before slicing—this small step makes a huge difference!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. I also love serving it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget some good bread to soak up those delicious juices!
Leftovers
You might be lucky enough to have leftovers (if you do, congratulations!). Store any remaining pork in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it in the oven for the best taste and texture.
Emotional Engagement:
When I made this dish for my family last week, they couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s those moments that remind me why I love cooking so much—the joy of bringing people together over a good meal.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cut of pork?
You can certainly experiment with different cuts, but I recommend sticking with a loin for this recipe. It’s lean and cooks beautifully!
How do I know when the pork is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can rub the pork with the spice mixture and store it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking!
Conclusion
There you have it! My Sweet and Savory Baked Pork Loin is not just a recipe; it’s a way to create beautiful memories with your loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it out—you’re going to adore it! Your family will be singing your praises, just like mine do. Let me know how it turns out for you, and remember to enjoy every bite!