Savory Cranberry-Glazed Pork Loin
Elevate your dining experience with this Savory Cranberry-Glazed Pork Loin, a delightful dish that combines the succulent flavors of tender pork with a rich, sweet-tart cranberry glaze. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, bringing warmth and festive cheer to your table. The mouthwatering aroma of roasted pork mingled with fresh apples and a hint of thyme will leave your guests begging for the recipe. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece that celebrates the vibrant flavor of cranberries while keeping the preparation simple and straightforward.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless pork loin roast, center-cut
3 lbs (trimmed of excess fat)
Salt
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Black pepper
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Whole berry cranberry sauce
8 ounces (for glaze)
Apple jelly
1 cup (for glaze)
Chicken broth
1 cup (for glaze)
Garlic cloves
2 (chopped)
Creole mustard (or spicy brown mustard)
1 tablespoon (for glaze)
Dried thyme leaves
2 teaspoons (for glaze)
Apples
2 (sliced for garnish)
Fresh thyme sprig
1 (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
Begin by seasoning the pork loin roast evenly with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned roast on a rack in a roasting pan coated with cooking spray, or an aluminum foil-lined roasting pan to ease cleanup.
3
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, apple jelly, chicken broth, chopped garlic, creole mustard, and dried thyme. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through and well combined.
4
Pour the cranberry glaze evenly over the pork roast, ensuring it covers the meat thoroughly.
5
Place the pork roast in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully baste the roast with the glaze from the pan, then continue to bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. The pork is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 160°F (71°C).
6
Once cooked, remove the roast from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice the pork loin into serving portions and arrange on a platter.
7
Garnish with fresh apple slices and a sprig of thyme for an elegant touch. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cranberry-Glazed Pork Loin?
It is a roasted pork dish featuring a sweet and tart glaze made from cranberry sauce, apple jelly, and savory herbs.
What cut of pork is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a 3-pound center-cut boneless pork loin roast, trimmed of excess fat.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C).
How do I prepare the roasting pan?
Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan coated with cooking spray or use an aluminum foil-lined pan for easier cleanup.
What seasonings are applied directly to the meat?
The pork loin should be seasoned evenly with salt and black pepper before roasting.
What are the main ingredients in the cranberry glaze?
The glaze consists of whole berry cranberry sauce, apple jelly, chicken broth, chopped garlic, creole mustard, and dried thyme.
How long do I need to simmer the glaze?
Simmer the glaze ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until well combined.
When is the glaze applied to the roast?
The glaze is poured evenly over the pork roast before it is placed in the oven.
What is the total roasting time for the pork?
The pork is roasted for an initial 20 minutes, followed by another 20-25 minutes after basting.
Why is basting important in this recipe?
Basting the roast with the pan glaze halfway through cooking helps build flavor and ensures a moist finish.
What is the safe internal temperature for this pork roast?
The pork is done when a meat thermometer registers 160°F (71°C) in the thickest part.
How long should the meat rest after cooking?
The roast should stand for 10 minutes after removal from the oven to allow juices to redistribute.
What can I use as a garnish for an elegant presentation?
Garnish the sliced pork with fresh apple slices and a sprig of fresh thyme.
Can I substitute Creole mustard with something else?
Yes, spicy brown mustard can be used as a substitute for Creole mustard.
What kind of cranberry sauce works best?
Whole berry cranberry sauce is recommended for the best texture and flavor in the glaze.
How much chicken broth is required for the glaze?
The recipe requires 1 cup of chicken broth.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday dinners?
Yes, the combination of cranberry, apple, and thyme makes it an excellent choice for festive occasions.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 chopped garlic cloves.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, though the glaze uses 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, you can substitute fresh thyme by increasing the quantity.
What is the weight of the pork loin roast needed?
A 3-pound center-cut boneless pork loin roast is specified.
How do I ensure the pork doesn't stick to the pan?
Use cooking spray on the roasting rack or line the pan with aluminum foil.
What should I do if I don't have a meat thermometer?
It is highly recommended to use a thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 160°F without overcooking.
Does the recipe require any preparation for the apples?
The 2 apples should be sliced for use as a garnish on the serving platter.
What is the purpose of the apple jelly in the glaze?
The apple jelly provides sweetness and helps create a thick, glossy consistency for the glaze.
How should the pork be sliced for serving?
Slice the rested pork loin into serving portions before arranging them on a platter.
Can I make this recipe in a regular baking dish?
Yes, a roasting pan or an oven-safe baking dish with a rack will work.
Is the pork roast cooked covered or uncovered?
The recipe instructions imply roasting uncovered to allow the glaze to caramelize.
How much apple jelly is used in the glaze?
The glaze requires 1 cup of apple jelly.
Is this recipe considered easy to prepare?
Yes, the preparation is described as simple and straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks.
What makes the aroma of this dish special?
The aroma comes from the combination of roasted pork, fresh apples, and fragrant thyme.