Garlic-Studded Pork Loin With Potatoes And Carrots
Garlic-studded pork loin paired with roasted potatoes and carrots offers a flavorful, savory dish with a hint of sweetness from pineapple, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a small bowl, combine the pineapple concentrate, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper.
- Peel the garlic cloves and cut each into thirds lengthwise.
- Make 18 random slits in the pork loin using a sharp knife.
- Tuck a piece of garlic into each slit.
- Place the pork loin in a small roasting pan and brush it with half of the pineapple-mustard mixture.
- Pour 1/2 cup of chicken stock into the bottom of the pan.
- Roast the pork loin for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more tender pork loin, marinate it in the pineapple juice mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but fresh offers a deeper flavor. Feel free to swap red potatoes for Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a different taste. Consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garlic-studded pork loin with roasted potatoes and carrots as a hearty main dish. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad pairs well with the richness of the pork. This dish can also be complemented with a light sauce or gravy made from the pan drippings. For a complete meal, consider browsing more chicken recipes for additional ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork loin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the pork in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also slice it and heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic-Studded Pork Loin With Potatoes And Carrots contains roughly 905 calories, with 23g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (275% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat instead of pork loin?
Yes, you can use pork tenderloin or even chicken breasts as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken will typically cook faster than pork loin. Ensure to check the internal temperature to guarantee doneness.
What if I don't have pineapple juice concentrate?
If you don't have pineapple juice concentrate, you can substitute with an equal amount of fresh pineapple juice or even apple juice for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that fresh juice might not be as concentrated in flavor.
How can I tell when the pork is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for pork loin. Allow it to rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).