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Apple Cider Pork Loin Recipe: A Delightful British Classic

As autumn settles in and the leaves transform into a tapestry of red and gold, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty meal that celebrates the season. Enter the Apple Cider Pork Loin, a dish that marries the richness of pork with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. This recipe is perfect for a Sunday roast or any special occasion and will undoubtedly impress your guests.

Ingredients

To serve approximately four people, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) pork loin, boneless and trimmed
• 300 ml (10 fl oz) apple cider (preferably a dry, traditional variety)
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large apples (such as Bramley or Granny Smith), cored and sliced
• 200 ml (7 fl oz) chicken stock
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method

1. Preparing the Pork Loin: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pat the pork loin dry with kitchen paper and season generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavours.

2. Searing the Meat: In a large oven-proof skillet or casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin and sear it on all sides until you achieve a golden-brown crust. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the pork and set aside.

3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add the sliced onions and sauté until they start to soften, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for a further minute, stirring often to prevent burning.

4. Creating the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, and ground cinnamon, then pour in the apple cider. Allow the mixture to bubble for a couple of minutes, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan to intensify the flavour.

5. Roasting the Pork: Return the pork loin to the pan, nestle the apple slices around it, and pour the chicken stock over the top. Bring to a simmer before covering the pan with a lid or foil. Transfer it to the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).

6. Resting the Meat: Once cooked, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for around 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a succulent bite every time.

7. Serving: To serve, slice the pork loin into thick medallions and arrange on a serving platter with the apple and onion mixture poured over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an aromatic touch.

Accompaniments

This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a fresh green salad. A glass of the same apple cider you used in cooking will complement the flavours beautifully, making for a cohesive dining experience.

Conclusion

The Apple Cider Pork Loin is not just a meal; it is a celebration of the flavours of autumn. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that warms the heart and brings family and friends together. So why not give this recipe a go? Your taste buds will thank you, and your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of succulent pork and sweet apples. Enjoy!

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