Juicy Herbed Pork Loin With Currant Sauce Recipe
Overview:
This delectable recipe is born from a fusion of three distinct culinary inspirations, marrying them into a delightful dish that guarantees a juicy pork loin every time. Confronted with the challenge of a hefty 12-pound pork loin purchase, my initial panic transformed into culinary triumph as I crafted this recipe, now beloved by my family. Perfect for festive occasions or whenever you seek to impress your loved ones, this dish promises to elicit “wows” all around the table!
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes
- Servings: Variable
Ingredients:
- 1 Dijon mustard
- 3 sprigs thyme
- 3 sprigs savory
- 1 1/2 teaspoons marjoram
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 garlic bulb, slivered
- 1 pork loin (12 pounds), divided into 4-pound portions
- 3 cloves garlic, slivered
- 1 cup red currant jelly
- 3 tablespoons black currant jelly
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Instructions:
Pork Loin Directions:
-
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to a scorching 475 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s ready for the flavorful journey ahead.
-
Prepare Pork Loin: With a sharp knife, puncture the top of the pork loin at intervals of approximately one to two inches, adjusting according to your fondness for garlic. Slide the slivered garlic into these incisions, infusing the loin with aromatic goodness.
-
Create Herb Paste: In a bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, thyme, savory, marjoram, salt, and black pepper, whisking until a smooth paste forms, a tantalizing blend that promises to elevate your pork loin to new heights.
-
Coat and Rest: Generously spread the herb paste over the pork loin, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated in flavorful delight. Roll the loin in the chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness. Cover the loin with plastic wrap and allow it to rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
-
Initial Roasting: Place the prepared pork loin on a rack in a shallow roasting pan, then slide it into the preheated oven. Let it roast at 475 degrees Fahrenheit for precisely 30 minutes, setting the stage for succulent perfection.
-
Crucial Resting Period: Once the initial roasting is complete, remove the pork loin from the oven and allow it to rest, uncovered, on the countertop for an additional 30 minutes. This crucial step allows the internal juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender outcome.
-
Adjust Oven Temperature: As the loin rests, adjust your oven temperature to a gentler 325 degrees Fahrenheit, preparing it for the next phase of culinary excellence.
-
Final Roasting: After the resting period, return the pork loin to the oven, now set at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue to bake for approximately 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe and succulent 145 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s imperative not to overcook, as we aim for tender perfection!
-
Rest and Slice: Once the pork loin reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes. This final resting period allows the internal temperature to climb slightly, ensuring optimal juiciness.
Currant Sauce Directions:
-
Prepare the Sauce: While the pork loin rests, it’s time to prepare the tantalizing currant sauce. Over medium heat, melt the red currant jelly in a saucepan, whisking gently until it transforms into a luscious liquid.
-
Flavor Infusion: Gradually whisk in the Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and a dash of salt and pepper, infusing the sauce with layers of complementary flavors. Stir until smooth and well combined, ensuring each spoonful delights the palate.
-
Slice and Serve: With the pork loin rested and the currant sauce prepared, it’s time to slice the loin thinly, unveiling its juicy interior. Drizzle a generous stream of the delectable currant sauce over the slices, transforming each bite into a symphony of flavors.
Enjoy:
Indulge in the culinary masterpiece you’ve created, savoring each succulent bite of Juicy Herbed Pork Loin paired with the vibrant notes of Currant Sauce. Whether served as the centerpiece of a holiday feast or as a weekday indulgence, this recipe is sure to captivate the senses and leave your guests clamoring for more. Cheers to culinary triumphs and unforgettable meals shared with loved ones! 🍽️🎉