Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This teriyaki pork loin recipe is your answer. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish, bursting with the sweet and savory flavors of classic teriyaki. This recipe is a go-to for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork loin roast
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This creates a beautiful, flavorful teriyaki sauce.
Prepare the Pork Loin:
- Place the pork loin in a baking dish.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the pork loin, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Bake the Pork Loin:
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; this is crucial for food safety.
- For extra caramelization, broil the pork for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve:
- Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork loin.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Teriyaki Pork Loin:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your baking dish isn't too small; this will ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey. Alternatively, increase it for an extra decadent flavor.
- Marinate for extra flavor: For even more intense flavor, marinate the pork loin in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Teriyaki: Add 1/2 cup of diced pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
- Garlic lovers: Double the amount of garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This teriyaki pork loin recipe offers a simple, delicious, and healthy meal option, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's one of the best recipes for those seeking flavorful yet easy dishes, a true staple among easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!