Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This tenderized pork loin recipe is a weeknight winner, perfect for busy families and anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Forget tough, dry pork – this recipe guarantees juicy, tender perfection every time. It’s one of those best recipes that's surprisingly simple, making it a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) pork loin, tenderized (see tips below)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin
Pat the tenderized pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes browning.
Step 2: Season the Pork
In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring it's evenly coated. This simple seasoning blend adds a fantastic depth of flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Pork
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step creates a delicious crust and seals in the juices.
Step 4: Braising the Pork
Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Roast for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork loin registers 145°F (63°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your pork loin.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the pork loin 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 final product. Slice and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Tenderizing Pork Loin:
- Meat Mallet: Use a meat mallet to pound the pork loin to an even thickness, about 1 inch. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Marinade: Marinating the pork loin for a few hours (or overnight) in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and spices further enhances the tenderness and flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Using a meat thermometer is crucial to avoid overcooking the pork loin, which can result in dryness.
Variations:
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, or sage.
- Apple Cider: Substitute apple cider for the white wine for a sweeter, fruitier flavor profile.
- Glaze: For added sweetness and glaze, brush the pork loin with honey or maple syrup during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This tenderized pork loin recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Try it out and see how easily you can create a delicious and healthy meal using simple ingredients and techniques. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it one of the best recipes in your arsenal of healthy meals. Enjoy!