Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup Soy sauce
• 1 cup Coca-Cola (not diet, for the best flavor)
• 1/2 cup Dark brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons Oil (vegetable or olive oil)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/3 cup Ketchup (for added sweetness and tang)
• 1 boneless pork loin roast (around 3-4 lbs)
• 1-2 tablespoons of minced garlic (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Loin:
   Start by trimming any excess fat off the pork loin if needed. Pat the pork dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Pork Loin:
   Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin and sear each side until it is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in the flavors and helps create a delicious crust.
3. Make the Sauce:
   While the pork is searing, prepare the sauce. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Coca-Cola, dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and minced garlic (if using). Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   After searing the pork, transfer it to a large baking dish or roasting pan. Pour the Coca-Cola sauce over the pork, ensuring the loin is evenly coated. If there’s extra sauce, pour it around the pork in the pan.
5. Roast the Pork Loin:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and roast the pork for about 1 to 1.5 hours. The cooking time will depend on the size of the pork loin. For a 3-4 lb roast, 1.5 hours should be sufficient. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—you’re aiming for 145°F (63°C) for a tender, juicy roast. Tip: Halfway through the roasting time, you can baste the pork with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
6. Rest the Pork:
   Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the pork tender and juicy.
7. Slice and Serve:
   After resting, slice the pork loin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices. Serve the pork with the sauce from the pan poured over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, for a touch of color and freshness.
8. Side Suggestions:
   This pork loin pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors. The sauce also works well over rice or noodles, making for a satisfying meal.

Notes:

• Flavor Variations: You can experiment by adding other ingredients to the sauce, like a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Leftovers: The leftovers are delicious in sandwiches, wraps, or chopped up in a salad the next day.

This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its sweet and savory combination, and it makes for a great Sunday dinner or special occasion meal. Enjoy!