How to Make a Pork Loin That Will Be Moist

The pork loin is delicious when prepared with a sweet glaze

Pork loin is very tasty and it is also extremely tender when prepared correctly. The loin is a long tubular cut of meat from the top rib of the pig. The meat is available bone-in or boneless -- has a fat cover but is somewhat lean otherwise -- making it a favorite meat for slow baking or grilling. By whatever method the loin is cooked the fat cover acts to tenderize and flavor the loin. The pork loin is an impressive cut of meat when baked, glazed and placed on the table for a special occasion.

Things You'll Need

• Oven
• 2 qt. saucepan
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 3 tbsp. maple syrup
• ½ cup brown sugar
• Whisk
• 2 tsp. instant coffee mix
• Large pan
• 1 cup flour
• Salt
• Pepper
• 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
• Skillet
• Meat forks, 2
• Roasting pan
• Non-stick spray
• Stem thermometer
• Basting brush

Instructions

Preparing The Glaze

1. Remove the top rack from the oven so a roasting pan will fit on the middle rack.

2. Turn on the oven and allow it to preheat to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Remove the 4 to 5 lb. pork loin from refrigeration and allow it to reach room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.

4. Melt the butter in the saucepan and then add the orange juice, maple syrup, and brown sugar mixing them together with the whisk. When the ingredients are mixed together into a hot liquid add the instant coffee, making certain it dissolves completely. Set the burner on low and allow the glaze to slowly simmer, stirring it occasionally.

Preparing The Pork Loin

1. Mix together in a large pan the flour, salt and pepper to taste. Dredge the pork loin in it until the loin is covered. Shake off the excess flour and set the loin aside.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in the skillet until it is hot enough to pop and sizzle when 1 drop of water falls into it. Use two meat forks to brown the loin for approximately one to two minutes on each side and on the edges where possible.

3. Coat the inside of the roasting pan with non-stick spray and place the pork loin in it. Pour 2/3 of the sauce over the pork loin, covering it evenly.

4. Put the lid on the roasting pan and slide the pork loin into the oven. Cook the loin for approximately three to four hours or until the internal temperature reaches 170 degrees Fahrenheit when measured by a stem thermometer stuck into the middle of the meat.

5. Remove the lid and quickly brush the pork loin with the remainder of the sauce. Return the roast to the oven uncovered and allow the sauce to glaze for 15 minutes. Allow to cool, slice and serve.

Tips & Warnings

• Pork loins are sold raw or in a sealed package filled with flavored marinades.

• At times it may be necessary to ask the butcher to cut a 4 to 5 lb. pork loin to set aside for you.

• Pork loins are baked in barbecue sauce and on a bed of bread stuffing: They are very versatile.

• Sanitize the work area and all utensils with a solution of one part household bleach and nine parts water, both before and after preparing the pork.

References

• Allrecipes.com: Maple Baked Pork Loin Roast