Craving a flavorful, tender, and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This smoked sliced pork recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and delivers restaurant-quality results. Forget takeout – this homemade cooking masterpiece is surprisingly quick and unbelievably delicious. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to impress. It's one of those healthy meals that tastes so good, you'll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork loin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Prepare the pork: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this spice mixture generously all over the pork loin.
Create the braising liquid: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and water.
Smoke and bake: Place the seasoned pork loin in an oven-safe skillet or roasting pan. Pour the vinegar mixture over the pork. Cover the pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
Cooking time: Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. This is crucial for food safety and guarantees a tender, juicy result.
Rest and slice: 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 incredibly tender and flavorful pork. Slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This smoked sliced pork is incredibly versatile! Serve it on its own, in sandwiches, tacos, salads, or alongside your favorite sides. Some delicious pairings include:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the pork loin has enough space to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork is cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
- Let it rest: Allowing the pork to rest is essential for achieving maximum tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your preference.
Variations:
- Add some heat: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Citrus twist: Add the zest and juice of half an orange or lemon to the braising liquid for a brighter flavor profile.
- Herb infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage into the spice rub for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g
This simple yet flavorful smoked sliced pork recipe is a surefire way to elevate your weeknight meals. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both healthy and easy to prepare. Enjoy!