Are you looking for a unique and flavorful recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This Coca-Cola glazed pork recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, delivering tender, juicy pork infused with the sweet and tangy taste of Coca-Cola. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a fantastic balance of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. Get ready to experience a taste sensation! This easy recipe is also a great example of transforming simple ingredients into a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork loin roast
- 1 (12-ounce) can Coca-Cola
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a Dutch oven or oven-safe roasting pan.
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Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Coca-Cola, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
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Marinate (Optional): For even more intense flavor, place the pork loin in a large zip-top bag and pour the glaze over it. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it enhances the taste significantly.
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Sear the Pork (Optional): For a beautiful crust, you can sear the pork loin in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side before glazing and placing it in the oven.
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Bake the Pork: Place the pork loin in the prepared Dutch oven or roasting pan. Pour the remaining glaze over the pork, ensuring it's coated evenly.
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Glaze & Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). During the last 15 minutes of cooking, baste the pork with the pan juices for an extra layer of delicious glaze.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Slice and serve the Coca-Cola glazed pork with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad are all excellent accompaniments.
Cooking Tips for the Best Coca-Cola Pork:
- Don't overcook the pork: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Overcooked pork will be dry and tough.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, for a sweeter glaze, add a little more.
- Use a good quality Coca-Cola: The flavor of the Coca-Cola will impact the overall taste of the dish, so using a classic cola is recommended.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious pork with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Coca-Cola Pork: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Coca-Cola Pork: Incorporate ½ cup of crushed pineapple into the glaze for a tropical twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
This Coca-Cola glazed pork recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!