Roasted Pork Loin

 Ingredients:

  • 2-3 pounds pork loin roast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Pork:

    • Pat the pork loin roast dry with paper towels.
    • If the roast has a fat cap, score it in a crisscross pattern with a sharp knife. This helps the fat render during cooking.
  3. Season the Pork:

    • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme.
    • Rub this mixture all over the pork loin.
    • Season the pork generously with salt and black pepper.
  4. Sear the Pork (Optional):

    • If you want to add extra flavor and a nice crust to the pork, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add a bit of olive oil and sear the pork loin on all sides until it's nicely browned. This step is optional but recommended.
  5. Roasting the Pork:

    • Place the pork loin in a roasting pan or on a rimmed baking sheet.
    • Add the sliced onion to the pan, if using.
    • Pour the chicken or vegetable broth and dry white wine (if using) into the pan. These liquids will help keep the meat moist during roasting and create a flavorful jus.
  6. Roast in the Oven:

    • Roast the pork loin in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. This will give you a juicy and slightly pink center.
    • Baste the pork occasionally with the pan juices to keep it moist.
  7. Rest and Slice:

    • Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier roast.
    • Slice the pork loin into thin slices and serve with the pan juices.

Enjoy your homemade roasted pork loin, a flavorful and succulent dish that's perfect for serving with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.