Imagine a main course that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one mouthwatering dish that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. This Maple Mustard Pork Loin is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that elevates the humble pork loin from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever cooking techniques, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork loin
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork loin from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center of the oven.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and coating.
- Season the pork loin generously with additional salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side to develop a flavorful crust.
- Brush the maple mustard mixture generously over the entire surface of the pork loin, ensuring even coverage.
- Transfer the skillet with the pork loin directly into the preheated oven.
- Roast for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from oven and let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes, which allows juices to redistribute and ensures a moist result.
- Slice against the grain and serve, drizzling any remaining pan juices over the meat.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork loin rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the pork's surface, which helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: This is crucial for achieving the perfect doneness without overcooking. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for a juicy, tender result.
- Don't Skip the Resting Period: Letting the meat rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to adjust the maple syrup to mustard ratio to suit your taste preferences - some like it sweeter, others tangier.
- Choose the Right Cut: A high-quality, well-marbled pork loin will provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 105mg
