Nothing beats the aroma of a delicious meal cooking in the oven, especially when it involves a juicy pork loin glazed with sweet and tangy apple flavors. This Apple Glazed Pork Loin recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender pork and the savory-sweet apple glaze creates a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
**Apple Glazed Pork Loin**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pork loin (about 2-3 lbs)
– 2 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on all sides. Place it in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Pour half of the apple glaze over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting.
5. Arrange the sliced apples around the pork loin in the baking dish. These will caramelize beautifully and infuse the pork with delicious apple flavor as they cook.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast the pork loin for about 45 minutes.
7. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and baste the pork loin with the remaining apple glaze. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Once cooked through, remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender pork loin.
9. Slice the pork loin into thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter with the caramelized apples. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy this succulent Apple Glazed Pork Loin with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The tender pork infused with the sweet and tangy apple glaze is a winning combination that will impress your family and guests alike. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering, bringing warmth and flavor to any occasion.