Are you looking for a delicious and impressive dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Dutch oven pork roast recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy pork, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, creates a truly satisfying meal perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe showcases the magic of slow cooking, resulting in fall-apart pork that's incredibly flavorful. It's one of those healthy meals that feels indulgent, making it a winner in our book!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound bone-in pork loin roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels. This simple step helps achieve a nice sear.
Sear the roast: Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast on all sides until nicely browned. This adds incredible depth of flavor to the final dish. Remove the roast from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the Dutch oven and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine and braise: Return the pork roast to the Dutch oven. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer on the stovetop. Then, cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Slow cook to perfection: Braise the pork roast for 2-2.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 190-195°F (88-91°C). The longer it cooks, the more tender it will be.
Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the pork roast from the Dutch oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Serve the pork with the delicious braising liquid and your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pork Roast:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Make sure there’s enough space in your Dutch oven for the roast and vegetables to brown properly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your pork roast is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your roast. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it's cooked to perfection.
Variations:
- Apple Cider Pork Roast: Substitute apple cider for the white wine for a sweeter and more autumnal flavor. Add some diced apples to the vegetables during the sautéing process.
- Garlic and Herb Pork Roast: Increase the amount of garlic and add other fresh herbs like sage or oregano for a more intense herbal flavor.
- Spicy Pork Roast: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the braising liquid for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your roast and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving would include approximately:
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Dutch oven pork roast recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for special occasions. Enjoy your homemade cooking! This easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire, offering a delicious and healthy option for the whole family. Consider this one of the best recipes for its ease and incredible flavor.