Peanut Buttered Pork Loin
A flavorful pork loin glazed with a creamy peanut and orange juice sauce, perfect for entertaining or family dinners with a balance of savory and citrus notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place pork loins in a shallow roasting pan and season with salt and pepper.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the pork loins.
- Bake at 350°F for about 1 1/2 hours or until the thermometer reads 170°F.
- Meanwhile, combine orange juice and peanut butter in a bowl.
- When the thermometer reads 170°F, brush the sauce on the roast.
- Continue baking and basting the pork for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the pork in the orange juice and peanut butter mixture for a few hours before baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a tablespoon of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 170°F for safe consumption, and let it rest before slicing for juicier meat.
Serving Suggestions
This Peanut Buttered Pork Loin pairs beautifully with My Favorite Potatoes or a fresh Georgia Cornbread Salad for a delightful meal. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. A side of tangy coleslaw can also enhance the flavors and provide a crunchy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of orange juice to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Buttered Pork Loin contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 467mg per serving (20% 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 type of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute creamy almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the consistency remains similar to peanut butter. Be mindful of any nut allergies if serving to guests.
How can I ensure the pork stays moist while baking?
Basting the pork with the orange juice and peanut butter mixture during the last 20 minutes of baking will help keep it moist. Additionally, letting the pork rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in tender slices.
What should I do if the pork is cooking too quickly?
If the pork is browning too fast, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. This will allow it to continue cooking evenly without drying out, ensuring it reaches the desired temperature without burning.
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).