Roast pork with cider and apples is the epitome of autumnal comfort food. The sweet and tart cider, combined with the crisp sweetness of apples, creates a flavour profile that perfectly complements the richness of the pork. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality results, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. This guide will walk you through creating a succulent, flavour-packed roast pork that's sure to become a family favourite.
Choosing Your Pork
The key to a perfect roast pork lies in selecting the right cut. A boneless pork loin is an excellent choice, offering a lean and tender result, perfect for slicing and serving. For a richer, more flavourful experience, consider a bone-in pork shoulder or even a whole pork tenderloin. Remember to ask your butcher for advice – they're experts in selecting the best cuts for roasting.
What cut of pork is best for roasting?
This depends on your preference for leanness and tenderness. A pork loin roasts quickly and produces lean, tender slices. A pork shoulder is a more fattier cut that results in incredibly moist and flavorful meat, ideal for pulled pork applications, but still delicious roasted whole. A pork tenderloin is smaller and cooks very quickly, best for smaller gatherings or as a side dish. Ultimately, the "best" cut is subjective and depends on your personal preference and the occasion.
Preparing the Pork and Ingredients
Before you begin, allow your pork to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking. While the pork comes to room temperature, prepare your cider and apple mixture.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lbs boneless pork loin (or your chosen cut)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2-3 apples (e.g., Braeburn, Honeycrisp), cored and quartered
- 12 oz apple cider
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
The Roasting Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pork cooks evenly and reaches the proper internal temperature.
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Season the pork generously: Rub the pork with olive oil, then season liberally with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Ensure the seasoning penetrates the meat evenly.
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Arrange the aromatics: Place the quartered onion and apples in the bottom of your roasting pan. This creates a bed of flavour that will infuse the pork during cooking.
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Place the pork on top: Carefully place the seasoned pork loin on top of the apples and onions.
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Pour the cider: Pour the apple cider into the bottom of the pan, ensuring the aromatics are partially submerged. This creates steam, keeping the pork moist.
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Roast: Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes for a 2-3 lb pork loin, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Adjust cooking time based on the size and type of pork you are using. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level to prevent foodborne illness.
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Rest: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
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Serve: Carve the pork and serve with the roasted apples and onions. The pan juices can be strained and used as a delicious gravy.
How long does it take to roast a pork loin?
Cooking time depends on the size and weight of your pork loin. A general rule is to allow approximately 20-25 minutes per pound at 375°F (190°C). Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium.
What temperature should roast pork be cooked to?
The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures the pork is safe to eat and cooked through, while still maintaining its tenderness and juiciness. Using a meat thermometer is crucial to guarantee accurate cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While you can't fully roast the pork ahead of time, you can prepare the ingredients and marinate the pork the night before. This will enhance the flavour and make the roasting process even quicker.
Serving Suggestions
Roast pork with cider and apples is incredibly versatile. It's delicious served with roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The pan juices make a wonderful gravy, adding extra flavour to the meal. Consider adding some crusty bread to soak up the delicious pan juices.
Enjoy your delicious and flavourful roast pork with cider and apples! Remember to adjust cooking times based on the size of your pork and always use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
