Herb-Crusted Roast Pork with Maple Glaze

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 30 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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Herb-Crusted Roast Pork with Maple Glaze is the kind of dish that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and makes you feel like a gourmet chef. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss.

Ingredients for Herb-Crusted Roast Pork with Maple Glaze

The star of the show is the pork loin, a lean cut that’s perfect for roasting. Coating it in olive oil helps the herbs adhere and adds a subtle richness. Fresh rosemary and thyme provide an earthy, aromatic balance to the dish. A sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper enhances the natural flavors. The maple syrup gives a sweet note, which contrasts beautifully with the savory herbs. Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar add tanginess, while garlic infuses depth and warmth.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a deeper herb flavor, marinate the pork loin in the herb mixture overnight.
  • If you’re short on time, you can use dried herbs — just reduce the quantity by half.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking; it’s the best way to ensure your pork is perfectly done.
  • If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer it a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This pork pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, like carrots and parsnips, which can be cooked alongside the pork. A light, crisp apple and arugula salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the roast. For a comforting starch, try creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a bone-in pork loin?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Bone-in cuts usually take a bit longer to cook.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
You can use honey or agave syrup, but keep in mind it will alter the final flavor slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the pork.

Herb-Crusted Roast Pork with Maple Glaze Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it's nice and hot when the pork goes in, helping to develop a crisp crust. As the oven warms, mix the rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This herb mixture is going to be your flavor powerhouse.

Next, rub the pork loin with olive oil. This isn't just for flavor; it helps the herbs stick to the meat. Now, coat the pork evenly with your herb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.

Place the pork on a roasting rack set inside a shallow roasting pan. This setup allows heat to circulate, cooking the pork evenly. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and roast for about an hour. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) — this ensures the pork is juicy and safe to eat.

While the pork roasts, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic in a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. This glaze will add a delicious, sticky finish to your roast.

In the last 15 minutes of roasting, brush the maple glaze generously over the pork loin. This step caramelizes the glaze, adding a beautiful sheen and extra flavor.

Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and moist.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Aromatic herbs create a flavorful crust that locks in juices.
  • The sweet and tangy maple glaze caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the pork's natural flavors.
  • Simple yet sophisticated — great for both everyday meals and special occasions.
  • Easy to prepare with straightforward steps and common ingredients.

Ingredients

4 lbs boneless pork loin
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the pork loin with olive oil, then coat evenly with the herb mixture.
4. Place the pork on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
8. During the last 15 minutes of roasting, brush the maple glaze over the pork loin to caramelize.
9. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

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