If you’re looking for a holiday-worthy meal or a delicious dinner with a seasonal twist, this Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast is the perfect dish. This recipe combines the tender, juicy flavors of pork with the tartness of cranberries and the slight bite of Dijon mustard. The apple cider and honey add a touch of sweetness that beautifully balances the tangy cranberries and sharp mustard. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for special occasions. Your family and guests will love the rich, comforting flavors of this roast, and you’ll love how easy it is to make!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2-3 lb pork loin roast
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pork loin roast on a cutting board, and season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the seasoning while you prepare the cranberry Dijon glaze.
Step 2: Make the Cranberry Dijon Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cranberries, Dijon mustard, apple cider, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to burst and soften. As they cook, the cranberries will release their juices, and the sauce will begin to thicken. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce (Optional)
For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend the cranberry mixture until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce with whole cranberries, you can skip this step.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the cranberry sauce and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Coat the Pork Loin with Sauce
Place the seasoned pork loin in a baking dish or roasting pan. Pour about half of the cranberry Dijon sauce over the pork loin, spreading it evenly over the top and sides. Reserve the remaining sauce for serving.
Step 6: Roast the Pork Loin
Cover the roasting pan with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. For a larger roast, cooking time may increase; be sure to check every 10-15 minutes after the first hour.
Step 7: Let the Roast Rest
Once the pork loin has reached the correct internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and flavorful result.
Step 8: Serve with Remaining Sauce
After resting, slice the pork loin into 1/2-inch thick slices and serve with the reserved cranberry Dijon sauce drizzled over each slice. For an extra touch, garnish with a few fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Estimated values based on a serving size of 4 oz of pork and sauce. Actual values may vary based on ingredients used.
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 28g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Fresh cranberries are recommended for this recipe as they add a tart, juicy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cider and honey. If you only have dried cranberries, try rehydrating them in warm water for 10-15 minutes, but keep in mind that the texture and taste will differ slightly.
Q: Can I substitute apple cider with another liquid?
A: Yes, you can substitute apple cider with apple juice, chicken broth, or even white wine for a different flavor profile. However, apple cider adds a unique sweetness that complements the cranberries and mustard.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover pork and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven to preserve the pork’s tenderness.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Prepare the sauce as directed, then place the pork loin and sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Tips for Making the Best Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork loin. Pork is fully cooked and safe to eat at 145°F (63°C). Allow it to rest for a juicy, tender result.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra tablespoon of honey. For a more tart flavor, add a splash more of apple cider vinegar.
- Serve with Seasonal Sides: This pork roast pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, green beans, and butternut squash. The warm, comforting flavors complement the pork beautifully and make for a complete, balanced meal.
- Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: If you’re preparing this for a holiday meal, make the cranberry Dijon sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop before pouring it over the pork for roasting.
- For a Crispier Exterior: After roasting, you can broil the pork loin for 2-3 minutes to create a crispy, caramelized exterior. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pork and cranberry Dijon sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the pork.
- Freezing: If you want to store leftovers longer, place slices of pork and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, let the pork thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a splash of apple cider or chicken broth to help maintain the pork’s moisture. Covering it while reheating can also prevent it from drying out.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast is a perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. The bright cranberries and smooth Dijon mustard create a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the tender pork loin to a new level. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a gourmet-quality meal that will impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re making this for a holiday feast or a cozy Sunday dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite recipe.
Final Thoughts
Don’t hesitate to customize the flavors to suit your taste. Whether adding a sprinkle of rosemary for a touch of earthiness or a bit more honey for added sweetness, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences. This cranberry Dijon pork loin roast is a dish you’ll want to savor all season long, so go ahead, prepare it with confidence, and enjoy each delicious bite!