Q1: What is the absolute, number one secret to a juicy, not dry, pork loin?

The two most important secrets are to not overcook it and to let it rest . Using an instant-read thermometer to pull the pork from the oven just as it reaches the perfect temperature, and then letting it rest for at least 15 minutes, are the non-negotiable keys that will guarantee an incredibly juicy and tender result.

Q2: What is the difference between a pork loin and a pork tenderloin?

This is a very common and important question! A pork loin (what is used in this recipe) is a large, wide, and relatively lean roast that is cut from the back of the pig. A pork tenderloin is a much smaller, thinner, and more delicate muscle that is incredibly tender. They are not interchangeable in recipes, as a tenderloin would cook much, much faster.

Q3: Can I make this with regular, non-alcoholic apple cider?

Yes, absolutely! If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, you can simply substitute the hard apple cider with an equal amount of a classic, unfiltered apple cider . You may want to add an extra splash of apple cider vinegar at the end to provide that bright, acidic note.

Q4: Can I make this with a different cut of meat?

Yes! This delicious glaze and pan sauce would also be fantastic on a bone-in pork roast, or even with some thick-cut, bone-in pork chops . You would need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q5: How do I get a really good sear on my onions?

The secret is to use a hot pan and to not move them ! By letting your onion wedges cook, undisturbed, for a few minutes on each side, you are allowing them to have direct, uninterrupted contact with the hot surface of the pan, which is the key that will create a beautiful, deep brown, and caramelized crust.

Juicy Roast Pork Loin (with an Easy Apple Cider Pan Sauce!)

An easy and elegant one-pan recipe for a Roast Pork Loin, perfect for a holiday meal or a special Sunday dinner. This dish features a boneless pork loin roast that is coated with a flavorful rub of Dijon mustard and fresh thyme. The pork is roasted in an ovenproof skillet on a bed of seared red onions, hard apple cider, and a mix of sweet dried fruit, which all combine to create a delicious, built-in pan sauce as the roast cooks.

Author: Evelyn

Ingredients

One 3- to 3.5-pound boneless pork loin roast
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 medium red onions, each cut into 8 wedges
2 cups hard apple cider
One 7-ounce bag mixed dried fruit

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
In a small bowl, stir together the Dijon mustard and chopped thyme.
Season the pork roast generously all over with salt and pepper, then rub the top surface with the mustard-thyme mixture.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion wedges and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until they are dark golden brown in spots.
Pour in the hard apple cider, stirring to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Scatter the dried fruit evenly in the skillet and remove it from the heat.
Place the seasoned pork roast in the skillet, mustard-side up, on top of the onions and fruit.
Bake until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the middle of the roast reads 145°F to 150°F, about 1 hour.
Transfer the roast to a cutting board, tent it with foil, and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Cut the roast into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Season the pan sauce with the onions and dried fruit to taste with salt and pepper, and serve alongside the pork.

Notes

This is a true one-pan meal that goes from the stovetop to the oven, which makes for very easy cleanup.
Using an instant-read thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure the pork is cooked to a juicy and safe temperature without being overcooked.
Resting the roast for 15 minutes before slicing is a crucial step that allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is moist and tender.
This roast is a great centerpiece for a holiday meal like Christmas dinner.

Find it online: https://cookupjoy.com/juicy-roast-pork-loin/