Are you looking for a show-stopping main course that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This smoking pork loin recipe delivers juicy, tender, and flavorful pork every single time. It's perfect for a weekend barbecue, a family gathering, or even a weeknight dinner if you plan ahead. This recipe makes homemade cooking feel effortless, resulting in one of the best recipes you'll ever try. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy recipe for a truly delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound boneless pork loin
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ rub (recipe below or store-bought)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup apple juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Homemade BBQ Rub Recipe (Optional):
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup paprika
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Equipment:
- Smoker (electric, charcoal, pellet – any type will work)
- Meat thermometer
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin
Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for your chosen BBQ rub. Generously coat the pork loin on all sides with the rub, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
Step 2: Prepare the Mop Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, apple juice, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This mop sauce will keep the pork loin moist during the smoking process.
Step 3: Smoking the Pork Loin
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place the seasoned pork loin on the smoker grates. Maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process. Every 30-45 minutes, baste the pork loin generously with the mop sauce using a basting brush.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
The pork loin is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) as measured by a meat thermometer. This usually takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the size of the loin and your smoker. Remember, using a meat thermometer is crucial for food safety!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the pork loin reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork loin. Slice against the grain and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs well with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans.
Tips for the Best Smoked Pork Loin:
- Don't overcrowd the smoker: Ensure there's enough space between the pork loin and other items to allow for even smoking.
- Maintain consistent temperature: Fluctuations in temperature can affect the cooking time and the overall quality of the pork.
- Use a quality meat thermometer: This ensures the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the pork to rest is essential for retaining its juiciness.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or other chili flakes to the rub for a spicier pork loin.
- Sweet and smoky: Use a bourbon-based BBQ sauce instead of the mop sauce for a sweeter and smokier flavor.
- Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the rub for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the pork loin and the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, consider one serving to contain roughly:
- Calories: 300-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
Enjoy your delicious homemade smoked pork loin! This quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite. Let us know how yours turned out in the comments below!