Imagine a main course that will have your dinner guests swooning with every bite - a perfectly roasted pork loin bathed in a rich, complex beer sauce that transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece. This isn't just another pork recipe; this is a flavor journey that combines the robust depth of beer, the warmth of herbs, and the succulence of perfectly cooked meat. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a food enthusiast seeking a new weekend cooking adventure, this Roast Pork Loin with Beer Sauce will elevate your cooking game and tantalize your taste buds like never before.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Pork loin (3-4 lbs)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Onion (1, chopped)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Beer (1 cup)
- Chicken broth (1 cup)
- Thyme (1 tsp, dried)
- Mustard (2 tbsp)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the pork loin will cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a better sear.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the meat.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork loin to the pan.
- Sear the pork loin for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust. Use tongs to turn the meat for even cooking.
- Once the pork loin is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in 1 cup of beer and 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 2 tablespoons of mustard, mixing well to combine all the ingredients.
- Return the seared pork loin to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. This will help infuse the meat with flavor as it roasts.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Halfway through the cooking time, check the pork and baste it with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Once the pork loin has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- While the pork is resting, you can place the skillet back on the stovetop over medium heat to reduce the sauce if desired. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
- Slice the pork loin into medallions and serve it with the beer sauce drizzled over the top. Enjoy your delicious roast pork loin!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches exactly 145°F for optimal juiciness and safety.
- Searing Matters: Take time to properly sear the meat before roasting. This creates a delicious golden crust that locks in flavor and moisture.
- Don't Skip Resting: Letting the meat rest after cooking is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and succulent.
- Beer Selection: Choose a medium-bodied beer like an amber ale or lager. Avoid very dark or bitter beers that might overpower the meat's flavor.
- Sauce Reduction: If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it on the stovetop after roasting to concentrate the flavors and achieve your desired consistency.
- Accompaniment Suggestions: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad to complement the rich beer sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 309kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
