How to Cook Pork Loin in Oven Slowly
Cooking pork loin in the oven slowly is a fantastic way to achieve a tender and juicy result. This method allows the flavors to meld together while the meat cooks to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a special occasion or just want to impress your family and friends, following these simple steps will help you create a delicious pork loin dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pork loin, boneless and about 2 pounds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Preparation
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, oregano, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using) to create a dry rub.
3. Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels and place it on a cutting board.
4. Using a sharp knife, make shallow incisions in the pork loin, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat.
5. Rub the dry rub mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to get it into the incisions.
6. Allow the pork loin to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to let the flavors seep in.
Cooking the Pork Loin
1. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan or baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the meat.
2. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it is sealed tightly around the edges.
3. Place the pan in the preheated oven and cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pork loin.
4. Remove the foil from the roasting pan and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
5. Continue cooking the pork loin for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the outside is golden brown and crispy.
6. Once the pork loin is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the slow-cooked pork loin with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. This dish is perfect for a variety of occasions, from a casual family dinner to a formal dinner party.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to cook pork loin in the oven slowly and enjoy a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
