Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! This Pork Loin Roast with Maple Glaze, Apples, and Cranberries is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. Imagine tender, juicy pork with a golden caramelized glaze, surrounded by soft, roasted apples and burst of tart cranberries. This isn't just another recipe; it's a guaranteed showstopper that will elevate your cooking skills and impress even the most discerning food critics.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lb pork loin roast
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your pork loin roast cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Take the pork loin roast and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear and prevents steaming during cooking.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This enhances the flavor of the meat.
- In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Mix well until smooth. This will be your glaze that adds sweetness and tang to the roast.
- Place the seasoned pork loin in a roasting pan or baking dish. Brush half of the maple glaze mixture over the top and sides of the pork loin, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Arrange the sliced apples and fresh cranberries around the pork loin in the roasting pan. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation.
- Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in during the initial cooking phase.
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- After 1 hour, remove the foil from the roasting pan and brush the remaining maple glaze over the pork loin. This will create a delicious caramelized crust.
- Return the uncovered roast to the oven and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is bubbly and golden.
- Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender roast.
- Slice the pork loin into thick slices and serve with the roasted apples and cranberries from the pan. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top for added flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Pork Loin Roast with Maple Glaze, Apples, and Cranberries, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork is cooked perfectly. The ideal internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for a juicy, tender roast.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Before seasoning, thoroughly pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a beautiful golden crust and prevents steaming.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the roast to rest for 10-15 minutes. This crucial step lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Glaze Application: Apply the maple-mustard glaze in stages—first before cooking and again near the end—to build layers of caramelized flavor.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, crisp apples and plump cranberries for the best flavor and presentation.
- Don't Overcrowd: Arrange apples and cranberries around the roast, giving each ingredient space to caramelize and develop deep flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
