Sure, let’s dive into the culinary adventure of crafting a delectable Apricot and Pecan-stuffed Pork Loin! 🍽️
Apricot and Pecan-stuffed Pork Loin Recipe
Description: This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, blending the sweetness of apricots with the richness of pecans, all encased in succulent pork loin. It’s not only delicious but surprisingly simple to make, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Plus, it presents beautifully on the table, adding an elegant touch to your meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Servings: 10
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups pecans
- 1/2 cup dried apricots
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 4 tablespoons fresh thyme, divided
- 4 tablespoons molasses, divided
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 boneless pork loin roast
- 1 tablespoon Bourbon
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Additional salt, to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Stuffing:
- Coarsely chop the dried apricots, pecans, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
- Add 2 tablespoons of thyme, 1 tablespoon of molasses, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the food processor.
- Process the mixture until finely chopped but not completely smooth.
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Prepare the Pork Loin:
- Make a lengthwise cut down the center of the pork loin roast, ensuring not to cut through the bottom.
- Starting from the center slice, horizontally slice towards one side, stopping 1/2-inch from the edge. Repeat on the other side.
- Flatten each half to a 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
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Stuff and Roll the Pork:
- Spread the apricot and pecan mixture evenly over the flattened pork loin halves.
- Roll each loin half jelly-roll fashion, starting from the long side, and secure with kitchen twine.
- Place both rolled loins seam side down in a shallow roasting pan.
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Preheat and Prepare the Sauce:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large saucepan, bring the Bourbon, chicken broth, and remaining 3 tablespoons of molasses to a boil.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully ignite the Bourbon mixture with a long match. Allow the flames to die down, then pour the mixture over the pork loins.
-
Roast the Pork:
- Bake the pork loins at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest portion registers 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the pan, reserve the drippings, and keep the pork warm.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- Pour the reserved drippings from the roasting pan into a small saucepan.
- Add the heavy whipping cream and salt to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce slightly thickens.
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Serve:
- Slice the stuffed pork loin and serve it with the creamy sauce.
This Apricot and Pecan-stuffed Pork Loin is a true culinary delight, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will impress your family and guests alike. Enjoy! 🎉
