Bacon-Wrapped Pork Loin with Caramelized Carrots and Carrot Sauce

Ingredients:

• For the Pork Loin:
  • 1 large pork loin (about 2-3 lbs)
  • 10-12 slices of bacon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
• For the Caramelized Carrots:
  • 4-5 large carrots, sliced into rounds
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Carrot Sauce:
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Tomato Essence:
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the pork loin with olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and fresh thyme (if using) to add flavor.
3. Wrap the seasoned pork loin tightly with bacon slices, overlapping them slightly to keep them in place.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped pork loin seam-side down on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
5. Roast the pork loin for 50-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
6. For crispier bacon, broil the pork loin for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Step 2: Make the Caramelized Carrots

1. While the pork is roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
2. Add the sliced carrots and sprinkle with brown sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the caramelized carrots aside and keep them warm until ready to serve.

Step 3: Prepare the Carrot Sauce

1. In a saucepan, add the chopped carrots and vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
2. Drain the carrots and transfer them to a blender. Add the butter and heavy cream, then blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed. Keep the sauce warm for serving.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Essence

1. Cut the tomatoes into quarters and remove the seeds. Grate or finely chop the tomato flesh to extract the juices.
2. In a small bowl, combine the tomato flesh and juice with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir to combine and set aside. The tomato essence will provide a fresh and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the pork and carrots.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice the bacon-wrapped pork loin into thick slices and arrange on a serving platter.
2. Spoon the carrot sauce onto the plate or serve it in a small bowl alongside the pork.
3. Arrange the caramelized carrots around the pork and drizzle with tomato essence for a pop of color and tangy flavor.
4. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on a 4 oz serving of pork and vegetables

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Sugar: 6g

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the carrot sauce and caramelized carrots in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat gently before serving. The pork loin is best cooked fresh to retain its juiciness.

Q: Can I use turkey bacon?
A: Absolutely. Turkey bacon works well and will crisp up similarly to regular bacon. However, it may need a bit more oil to prevent sticking.

Q: How can I adjust the sweetness of the carrot sauce?
A: If you’d like a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of cream or omit the brown sugar in the caramelized carrots for a slightly lighter flavor.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Yes, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or sweet potatoes make excellent additions to this dish.

Tips for Making the Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Pork Loin with Caramelized Carrots:

1. Choose a Good-Quality Pork Loin: A fresh, high-quality pork loin will be more tender and flavorful. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
2. Wrap the Bacon Tightly: Wrapping the bacon tightly around the pork helps it stay in place and become crispy while baking. For extra security, you can use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh carrots, garlic, and tomatoes will make a big difference in the overall flavor and vibrancy of this dish.
4. Broil for a Crispier Finish: For bacon that’s extra crispy, broil the pork for a few minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
5. Control the Sauce Consistency: If the carrot sauce seems too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few extra minutes.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store any leftover pork, carrots, and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork and carrots in the oven to retain texture, and warm the sauce gently on the stovetop.

Freezer: While the pork loin can be frozen, the carrot sauce may change in texture due to the cream content. Freeze the pork and caramelized carrots for up to 2 months in freezer-safe bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

Conclusion:

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Loin with Caramelized Carrots and Carrot Sauce is a show-stopping meal that combines savory, sweet, and tangy elements. The juicy pork and crispy bacon pair perfectly with the caramelized and creamy carrot flavors, while the tomato essence adds a refreshing touch. This dish is a feast for the senses and a perfect choice for a memorable dinner. Give this recipe a try and bring a sophisticated twist to your dining table!