Imagine a dish that combines the succulence of perfectly roasted pork with the sweet and tangy embrace of homemade applesauce. This Roasted Pork Loin with Cider and Chunky Applesauce is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat your family to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create memories around the dinner table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork loin
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 apples, chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the pork loin from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of thyme on all sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, sauté sliced onions until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Add chopped apples to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle remaining thyme over the apples and onions.
- Pour apple cider into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will help develop rich flavor.
- Return the pork loin to the skillet, placing it on top of the apple and onion mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Roast for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- While the pork rests, stir the apples and onions in the skillet to create a chunky applesauce. If desired, mash some of the apples for a more rustic texture.
- Slice the pork loin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Serve with the warm cider-infused chunky applesauce.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork loin rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even roasting.
- Searing Magic: Take time to properly sear the meat. This step locks in flavors and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Meat Thermometer Matters: Invest in a reliable meat thermometer to hit the perfect 145°F internal temperature—no more guesswork!
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the pork to rest after cooking. This step redistributes juices, guaranteeing a moist and tender result.
- Flavor Layering: Don't discard those pan drippings! They're packed with flavor and make the chunky applesauce extraordinary.
- Cutting Technique: Always slice the pork against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness and easier chewing.Pro tip: For extra depth of flavor, consider brining your pork loin for a few hours before cooking or adding a touch of fresh rosemary alongside the thyme.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 244kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 80mg
