Maple-Brined Pork Loin

This flavorful pork loin is brined with a sweet and savory maple syrup mixture, resulting in a tender and juicy roast. The brine infuses the meat with aromatic spices, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Brine:

• 1 quart cold water

• ⅓ cup maple syrup

• ¼ cup salt

• 3 cloves garlic, crushed

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh ginger

• 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper

• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  
  

For the Pork:

• 1 (2½-pound) boneless pork loin roast

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Brine: In a large stainless steel bowl, combine the cold water, maple syrup, salt, crushed garlic, chopped ginger, cracked black pepper, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the salt is dissolved.

2. Brine the Pork: Place the pork loin into the brine, ensuring it is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably up to 10 hours.

3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).

4. Prepare the Pork: Remove the pork from the brine and discard the brine. Pat the pork dry with paper towels. Season the pork generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

5. Sear the Pork: In an oven-proof skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the pork and sear it on all sides until browned, approximately 10 minutes total.

6. Roast the Pork: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), about 40 minutes.

7. Glaze the Pork: In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Brush this mixture over the top and sides of the roast. Continue roasting until the glaze is set and the pork is slightly pink in the center, about 15 more minutes.

8. Serve: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
   
   

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 376

• Total Fat: 19g

• Saturated Fat: 6g

• Cholesterol: 92mg

• Sodium: 225mg

• Total Carbohydrate: 19g

• Dietary Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 15g

• Protein: 31g

• Vitamin C: 2mg

• Calcium: 55mg

• Iron: 2mg

• Potassium: 548mg