Herb-Infused Garlic-Thyme Roast Pork Loin
Indulge in the juicy, succulent flavors of this Herb-Infused Garlic-Thyme Roast Pork Loin. Perfect for family feasts and special occasions, this dish features a robustly seasoned rib rack pork loin stuffed with aromatic garlic, resulting in a tender and flavorful centerpiece. With an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen, this recipe highlights the sweetness of roasted garlic, complemented by a crispy, golden skin that is simply irresistible. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a memorable meal fit for any gathering.
8
Servings
350
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Loin
6 (lb rib rack, unpeeled)
Garlic Heads
2 (unpeeled)
Garlic Cloves
2 (peeled and chopped)
Olive Oil
to taste (for rubbing)
Sea Salt
to taste (for rubbing)
Fresh Thyme
2 (tbsp, chopped (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut several deep slits into the meat of the pork loin, ensuring not to cut all the way through to the bone.
3
Place the pork loin skin-side up in a large roasting pan. Add the unpeeled heads of garlic around the meat.
4
Chop the peeled garlic cloves into small pieces and stuff them into the slits of the pork loin for maximum flavor.
5
Generously drizzle olive oil over the skin and rub sea salt into it, ensuring an even coating.
6
If using, sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme over the pork loin for added aroma and flavor.
7
Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the skin becomes crispy and golden.
8
After 25 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
9
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
17g
Fat
4g
Carbs
40g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this pork recipe?
The recipe is for Herb-Infused Garlic-Thyme Roast Pork Loin.
How many servings does this roast pork loin yield?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
What specific cut of pork is required?
The recipe calls for a 6 lb rib rack pork loin, unpeeled.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to initially?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (230°C).
How should the pork loin be prepared before roasting?
Use a sharp knife to cut several deep slits into the meat, ensuring you do not cut all the way through to the bone.
Where should the unpeeled garlic heads be placed?
Place the unpeeled garlic heads around the meat in a large roasting pan.
What do I do with the chopped garlic cloves?
The chopped garlic cloves should be stuffed into the slits cut into the pork loin for maximum flavor.
Which side of the pork loin should face up in the pan?
The pork loin should be placed skin-side up in the roasting pan.
What ingredients are used for rubbing the skin?
Drizzle olive oil and rub sea salt into the skin for an even coating.
Is fresh thyme required for this recipe?
Fresh thyme is optional, but it can be sprinkled over the pork for added aroma and flavor.
How long is the initial roasting period?
Roast the pork at 450°F for 25 minutes.
What is the purpose of the initial high-heat roasting?
The high temperature helps the skin become crispy and golden.
To what temperature should the oven be reduced after the first 25 minutes?
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
How much longer does the pork roast after the temperature is lowered?
It should roast for an additional 35-40 minutes.
What internal temperature indicates the pork is done?
The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Should the pork be rested after cooking?
Yes, let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
How many calories are in one serving of this roast?
There are 350 calories per serving.
How much protein is provided in a single serving?
Each serving contains 40g of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 17g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
This recipe contains 4g of carbohydrates per serving.
How many garlic heads are needed?
You will need 2 unpeeled garlic heads.
How many garlic cloves are used for stuffing?
Two peeled and chopped garlic cloves are used for stuffing the slits.
Is the garlic in the pan supposed to be peeled?
No, the garlic heads placed around the meat should be unpeeled.
What type of salt is recommended for this recipe?
Sea salt is recommended for rubbing into the skin.
Can this recipe be served for special occasions?
Yes, it is described as a perfect dish for family feasts and special occasions.
How is the flavor profile of the garlic described?
The recipe highlights the sweetness of roasted garlic.
What tools are necessary to check if the pork is cooked?
A meat thermometer is required to check the internal temperature.
What is the amount of fresh thyme used if opting to include it?
If using, you should use 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh thyme.
How is the final texture of the pork loin described?
The final dish is juicy, succulent, and tender with a crispy skin.
Should the pork be served warm or cold?
The instructions recommend serving the pork loin warm.