Cooking a pork loin roast is slightly different from cooking regular boneless pork chops because of the size and thickness of the cut. Pork loin roast is a larger piece of meat, typically weighing several pounds, while pork chops are smaller and thinner. Here's a basic recipe for cooking a pork loin roast:
Ingredients:
- Pork loin roast (boneless)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper
- Herbs and spices of your choice (rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, etc.)
- Optional: minced garlic or garlic cloves
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the roast: Pat the pork loin roast dry with paper towels. If there is a layer of fat on top, you can leave it or trim it to your preference. Trimming some of the fat will help prevent excessive splattering while cooking.
Season the roast: Rub the pork loin roast all over with olive oil or vegetable oil to help the seasonings adhere. Generously season the roast with salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs and spices. You can use a pre-made pork rub or create your own blend.
Optional: For additional flavor, you can insert slivers of minced garlic or whole garlic cloves into the pork roast. Make small incisions with a knife and push the garlic into the meat.
Roasting: Place the seasoned pork loin roast on a roasting pan or a rimmed baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, ensuring it doesn't touch the bone if there is one.
Cooking time: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the roast and your desired doneness. A general guideline is to roast the pork loin for about 20-25 minutes per pound (450-570 grams) of meat. However, it's essential to rely on the meat thermometer to determine doneness accurately.
Cook to the right temperature: For safe consumption, the internal temperature of the pork loin roast should reach 145°F (63°C). This is the recommended safe minimum temperature according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Keep in mind that the meat will continue to cook a little as it rests.
Resting: Once the roast reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil. Allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender roast.
Slice and serve: After resting, slice the pork loin roast against the grain into your preferred thickness. Serve it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Remember, cooking times can vary, so always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure your pork loin roast is cooked to perfection. Enjoy your deliciously tender and flavorful pork loin roast!