Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors! This Maple Pork Loin with Apples and Onions is not just a recipe—it's a culinary experience that will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with irresistible aromas and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Imagine tender, juicy pork glazed with rich maple syrup, nestled alongside caramelized apples and onions that melt in your mouth with every single bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Pork loin
- Maple syrup
- Apples
- Onions
- Thyme
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the pork loin cooks evenly and develops a nice caramelized exterior.
- Gather all your ingredients: 2 to 3 pounds of pork loin, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 2 medium apples (preferably a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji), 1 large onion, 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried), salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Prepare the pork loin by trimming any excess fat. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear when cooking.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This enhances the flavor of the meat.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork loin to the skillet.
- Sear the pork loin for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it is nicely browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- While the pork is searing, peel and slice the onions into thin wedges. Core and slice the apples into wedges as well.
- Once the pork loin is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the apple wedges to the skillet with the onions and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften.
- Return the pork loin to the skillet, placing it on top of the apples and onions. Drizzle the maple syrup over the pork and sprinkle the thyme on top.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the cover and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork loin rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Slice the pork loin into thick pieces and serve it with the sautéed apples and onions on the side. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top for added flavor.
- Enjoy your Maple Pork Loin with Apples and Onions, a delicious and comforting American dish perfect for any occasion!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork loin reaches the perfect 145°F internal temperature for optimal juiciness and safety.
- Choose the Right Apples: Select sweet, firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji that will hold their shape during cooking and provide a delightful contrast to the savory pork.
- Searing Matters: Take time to properly brown the pork loin before baking. This step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful golden exterior.
- Let it Rest: Never skip the 10-minute resting period after cooking. This allows the meat's juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Maple Syrup Selection: Use pure, high-quality maple syrup for the most authentic and rich flavor profile in your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
