Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast with Apple Cider Glaze
Introduction:
Welcome to a culinary delight that will surely bring warmth and flavor to your dinner table: the Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast with Apple Cider Glaze! This dish beautifully pairs tender pork with a sweet and tangy cranberry apple topping and a rich glaze that speaks to the essence of special occasions and holiday gatherings. I can’t wait to share this delicious recipe with you! If you’d like to receive this recipe and others straight to your inbox, don’t hesitate to subscribe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This recipe is a wonderful blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. The combination of the zesty Dijon mustard, sweet cranberries, and aromatic apple cider creates an irresistible taste experience. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for holiday feasts! Plus, the veggie-friendly ingredients make it suitable for family dinners where everyone can gather around the table to enjoy good food and great company.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Loin:
– 3-4 lb pork loin roast
– 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cranberry Apple Topping:
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1 tbsp butter
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Necessary Tools:
– Roasting pan
– Small saucepan
– Mixing bowls
– Meat thermometer
– Spoon for mixing
Ingredient Swaps and Additions:
Feel free to experiment! Try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for the glaze, or swap out fresh cranberries for frozen ones. If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the pork rub for an extra kick. You could also throw in some chopped nuts for added crunch in the topping if that’s your style!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your roast cooks evenly.
2. Prepare Pork Loin: In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, brown sugar, olive oil, dried thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Rub this delightful mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to cover every inch.
3. Roast the Pork: Place your seasoned pork loin in a roasting pan and pop it in the oven. Roast for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 145°F (63°C). This is key to achieving that perfect juicy texture! Once it’s done, let it rest, covered loosely with foil, for about 10 minutes before slicing.
4. Make the Cranberry Apple Topping: While your pork roasts, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add in the cranberries, diced apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you hear those cranberries start to pop and the fruit softens. The smell will have your mouth watering!
5. Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze: In a separate saucepan, combine the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Bring this concoction to a simmer and allow it to reduce by half—around 10 minutes—until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
6. Serve: Now comes the best part. Slice that succulent pork and arrange it on a platter. Generously spoon the cranberry apple topping over the slices and finish it off with a drizzle of the apple cider glaze. If you feel fancy, garnish it with fresh thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this roast with your favorite sides—think roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a hearty winter salad. A glass of cider or a light white wine pairs wonderfully with this dish, making your meal feel truly festive.
Pro Tips for Success:
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork is perfectly cooked.
– Don’t skip the resting time; it helps lock in those juicy flavors!
– Feel free to prepare the topping and glaze in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Storing and Reheating:
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork in the oven to maintain its tenderness, and reheat the cranberry topping and glaze on the stovetop.
FAQ Section:
– Can I use a different cut of pork?** Yes! You can use pork tenderloin, just adjust the cooking time.
– What’s the best way to know when the pork is done?** Always rely on a meat thermometer; it’s the most accurate way to avoid overcooking.
– Can I make this ahead of time?** Absolutely! Prepare the pork, topping, and glaze a day ahead, then reheat before serving.
Conclusion:
In summary, the Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast with Apple Cider Glaze is a delightful dish that’s simple to prepare and truly impressive. Its medley of flavors not only warms the heart but also brings family and friends together—perfect for your next gathering! I’d love to see how your version turns out, so feel free to leave a review or share your photos by tagging me on Instagram or Pinterest!
Nutritional Information:
Approximate values per serving:
Calories: 320
Protein: 30g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 15g
