Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delectable Filipino Pork Loin recipe! This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly unforgettable taste experience, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a fantastic option for those exploring homemade cooking and seeking delicious dishes that are both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs pork loin, trimmed of excess fat
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably Filipino brand for authentic flavor)
- 1/4 cup cane vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions:
Marinating the Pork Loin (Prep Time: 15 minutes, Marinating Time: At least 30 minutes):
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In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, ginger, and salt. This creates the flavorful marinade that will tenderize and season the pork.
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Add the pork loin to the marinade, ensuring it's fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer (up to 4 hours) for maximum flavor penetration. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful your pork loin will be.
Cooking the Pork Loin (Cook Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes):
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Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. If using oil, add it now.
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Add the marinated pork loin to the skillet. Sear it on all sides until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step helps to create a beautiful crust.
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Add the sliced onions and bay leaves to the skillet. Stir to combine with the pork and marinade.
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Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pork loin simmer for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Regularly check the pork and flip it halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. You may need to add a little water if the marinade becomes too dry during cooking.
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Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the skillet and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Serving Suggestions:
Slice the pork loin and serve it with your favorite Filipino side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, pan-fried vegetables (like string beans or kangkong), and a side of atchara (pickled papaya).
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of patis (fish sauce) to the marinade.
- Tenderize the pork: You can use a meat mallet to pound the pork loin slightly before marinating, which helps to tenderize the meat further.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet marinade, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a few slices of chili peppers to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can also be easily adapted for a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
This easy recipe makes for a fantastic weeknight dinner and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying Filipino Pork Loin!