Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary pork roast into a culinary masterpiece that dances between sweet and savory, with tender meat falling apart and a vibrant fruit medley that'll make your taste buds sing! This Cran Apple Pork Roast isn't just a meal—it's an experience that bridges traditional American comfort food with gourmet elegance, promising to elevate your dinner table from mundane to magnificent.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork roast
- 2 cups cranberries
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup apple cider
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides, ensuring even coverage.
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed roasting pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the roast from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the chopped onions until translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced apples and cranberries to the pan, stirring to combine with the onions.
- Pour the apple cider over the fruit and onion mixture, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
- Return the pork roast to the pan, nestling it on top of the fruit mixture. Ensure the roast is surrounded by the cranberries, apples, and cider.
- Cover the pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Roast for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste the roast with pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
- Once done, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the roast and serve with the caramelized cranberries, apples, and pan sauce.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches exactly 145°F for perfect doneness—juicy inside, beautifully crusted outside.
- Searing Matters: Take time to properly sear your roast. Those golden-brown edges aren't just for looks—they're packed with flavor-enhancing caramelization.
- Liquid Love: Don't skimp on the apple cider. It's not just a cooking liquid, but a flavor-building elixir that will tenderize and infuse your roast with incredible depth.
- Rest is Best: Letting your roast rest after cooking is non-negotiable. Those 10-15 minutes allow juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is succulent.
- Pan Sauce Magic: Those caramelized fruits and pan drippings are liquid gold—serve them alongside the roast for an extra flavor punch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
