This Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of Coca-Cola with the savory richness of a perfectly cooked pork loin. The caramelization from the cola creates a delicious glaze, making this dish a standout at any dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The Coca-Cola marinade adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the pork.
- Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a holiday centerpiece.
- The recipe is easy to follow, yet delivers a gourmet-quality result.
- Pairs well with a variety of side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.
- The leftovers are just as delicious and can be repurposed into sandwiches or salads.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pork loin
- Coca-Cola
- Brown sugar
- Garlic cloves
- Soy sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Black pepper
- Onion
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade:Â Combine Coca-Cola, brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix until the sugar dissolves.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork loin in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Sear the Pork:Â Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until browned.
- Bake the Pork: Transfer the pork to a roasting pan. Pour the marinade over the top and bake for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste the pork with the marinade every 30 minutes.
- Rest and Serve:Â Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings:Â 6-8
- Prep Time:Â 15 minutes
- Marinating Time:Â 4 hours (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 1 ½ to 2 hours
- Total Time:Â Approximately 6 hours
Variations
- Spicy Twist:Â Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herbal Notes:Â Include fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs in the marinade for an aromatic touch.
- Citrus Flavor:Â Add a splash of orange juice or a few slices of orange to the marinade.
- Slow Cooker Option:Â Cook the pork in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours instead of baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:Â Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm the pork slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a skillet over low heat with a bit of the leftover marinade to keep it moist.
FAQs
1. Can I use diet Coca-Cola for this recipe?
Yes, but the flavor may be slightly less sweet compared to regular Coca-Cola.
2. Can I substitute pork loin with another cut?
Yes, pork tenderloin or pork shoulder can work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce to make it gluten-free.
4. Can I marinate the pork for less time?
For best results, marinate for at least 4 hours, but a shorter time will still impart some flavor.
5. What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or cornbread are excellent choices.
6. Can I grill the pork instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Just baste the pork with the marinade while grilling.
7. How do I know when the pork is done?
Use a meat thermometer. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
9. Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan?
Absolutely. Onions, carrots, and potatoes are great options to roast alongside the pork.
10. Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
This Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite. With easy preparation and versatile serving options, this recipe is a must-try for pork lovers.
PrintOld South Coca-Cola Pork Loin
This Southern-inspired pork loin is marinated in a blend of Coca-Cola, soy sauce, and spices, then roasted to perfection. The result is a tender, juicy roast with a sweet and tangy glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dry mustard powder
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
- 5-pound boneless pork loin roast
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2/3 cup Coca-Cola
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine all marinade ingredients except the pork loin.
- Place the pork loin in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag, ensuring the pork is well coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight, turning occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Roast the Pork:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the pork loin from the marinade and place it on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up. Discard the marinade.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast.
- Roast for approximately 30 to 40 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will take about 2.5 to 3 hours for a 5-pound roast.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- While the pork is roasting, combine all glaze ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Glaze the Pork:
- During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the glaze over the pork loin every 10 minutes.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the pork reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and tent with foil.
- Allow it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute.
- Serve with any remaining glaze on the side.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider marinating the pork for up to 24 hours.
- Ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) as recommended by the USDA.