Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece - a roast pork so tender it practically melts in your mouth, paired with caramelized apples that burst with sweet and savory flavor. This isn't just another pork recipe; this is a game-changing meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Get ready to elevate your cooking skills and create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork loin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your roast pork cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Take the pork loin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season the pork generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork loin in the skillet. Sear the pork for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust.
- While the pork is searing, prepare the apples and onion. Slice the apples into wedges and the onion into thin rings. Set aside.
- Once the pork is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the sliced apples to the skillet with the onions and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to caramelize the apples and enhance their flavor.
- Pour the apple cider into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Return the seared pork loin to the skillet, placing it on top of the apple and onion mixture. Sprinkle the fresh thyme over the pork.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist roast.
- Slice the pork loin and serve it on a platter, spooning the apple and onion mixture over the top. Enjoy your delicious roast pork with apples!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Always select a high-quality pork loin with a nice layer of fat for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Make sure to thoroughly dry the pork before seasoning to achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches the perfect 145°F internal temperature - this guarantees a juicy, safe-to-eat roast.
- Let It Rest: Never skip the resting period after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your pork incredibly tender.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh thyme if possible - it makes a significant difference in the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When searing, give the pork plenty of space to ensure it browns evenly and develops a delicious crust.
- Experiment with Cider: Try different types of apple cider for subtle flavor variations - each one can bring a unique twist to the recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 338kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
