Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables

Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables Recipe - Flavorful & Nutritious

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The combination of tender pork loin, flavorful garlic, and hearty vegetables makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

History

This recipe has its roots in traditional European cooking, where pork loin is a popular cut of meat that is often paired with garlic and vegetables. The addition of garlic cloves inserted into the meat adds a burst of flavor and aroma that enhances the overall dish.

Ingredients

1 (2 lb) boneless pork loin top roast, well trimmed
4 to 6 small cloves garlic
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cup water
1 bay leaf
1 medium onion, quartered
3 carrots, 1 inch diameter, cut into 2 inch pieces
2 celery stalks, cut into 1 inch pieces
3 medium russet potatoes, cut into quarters
3 tbsp butter

How to prepare

Cut slits that are 1.5 inches deep into the top of the loin using a paring knife.
Depending on your preference for garlic, cut one hole about every inch.
Insert a garlic clove into each hole and push it completely into the meat.
Season the loin with salt and pepper, adding a small pinch in the garlic holes as well.
In a 6- or 8 qt (7.57 liter) Presto™ pressure cooker, brown the meat in vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Brown the meat on all sides.
Drain off any excess oil.
Pour water into the cooker, ensuring that the cooker has cooled down and is not excessively hot.
Add a bay leaf.
Place the browned meat on a cooking rack.
Make sure that the meat does not exceed the 0.67 full marking in the cooker.
Securely close the pressure cooker cover.
Place the regulator on the vent pipe and cook for 30 minutes with the pressure regulator rocking slowly.
Quickly cool the cooker and remove the meat.
Place the vegetables and potatoes on the rack.
Return the meat on top of the vegetables, making sure it does not extend beyond the 0.67 full marking.
Add butter.
Securely close the pressure cooker cover.
Place the regulator on the vent pipe and cook for another 5 minutes with the pressure regulator rocking slowly.
Quickly cool the cooker.
Remove the meat and vegetables.
Allow the meat to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
The remaining cooking liquid can be used as a great sauce, either as is or lightly thickened.

Variations

Try using different herbs and spices to season the pork loin, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
Substitute the vegetables with your favorites, such as green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the cooking liquid for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the pork loin well before pressure cooking to seal in the juices and develop a rich flavor.

- Use a cooking rack to elevate the meat and vegetables above the cooking liquid, ensuring that they cook evenly and do not become soggy.

- Allow the pressure cooker to cool down before adding water to prevent any accidents or injuries.

- Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and juicy result.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pressure cooking is a quick and efficient method for cooking the pork loin and vegetables, resulting in tender and flavorful results in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil or canola oil instead of vegetable oil for browning the meat.

- Swap out the russet potatoes for sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving. Store the cooked pork loin and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced pork loin and vegetables on a platter and drizzle with the cooking liquid for a beautiful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the pork loin and garlic. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach would also be a delicious accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 24g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 120% DV

Vitamin C: 30% DV

Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains: Garlic

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With tender pork loin, aromatic garlic, and hearty vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delicious flavors and nutritious benefits of this dish with your loved ones!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a cold winter day and I was browsing through an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. The pages were yellowed with age and the binding was worn, but the recipes inside were a treasure trove of culinary delights.

As I flipped through the pages, a recipe for Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables caught my eye. The combination of tender pork loin, fragrant garlic, and colorful vegetables seemed like the perfect hearty meal for a chilly evening. I knew I had to try it.

I had never made a pork loin before, but I was determined to master this recipe. I gathered all the ingredients I would need – a hefty pork loin, fresh garlic cloves, an assortment of colorful vegetables, and a medley of herbs and spices. I could already picture the dish in my mind, a beautiful centerpiece for a family dinner.

As I began to prepare the pork loin, I thought back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some had been passed down through generations, while others had been picked up from friends and neighbors. Each one had its own story, its own special meaning.

I remembered the first time I learned how to make my grandmother's famous apple pie. She had shown me how to roll out the perfect crust, mix the filling just right, and bake it until the house was filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon and sugar. It was a memory I cherished, and one that inspired me to continue learning and experimenting in the kitchen.

As I carefully studded the pork loin with garlic cloves, I thought about the different ways I had learned to cook over the years. From my mother's simple yet delicious meatloaf to my aunt's spicy jambalaya, each recipe had taught me something new about flavors, techniques, and the joy of creating something from scratch.

The vegetables sizzled in the pan as I seared the pork loin, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. I added a splash of wine and some chicken broth, letting the flavors meld together as the meat cooked to perfection. I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.

Finally, the Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables was ready. I plated the succulent meat alongside the vibrant vegetables, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The colors and textures were a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite, the rich flavors of the pork loin and garlic mingled with the sweet and savory vegetables. It was a symphony of tastes and textures, a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. I knew I had found a new favorite recipe, one that would be passed down through the generations just like the others before it.

I looked around the table at my family, their faces lit up with joy and satisfaction. The Garlic-studded Pork Loin with Vegetables had brought us together, just as food always does. I smiled, knowing that I had added another cherished recipe to my collection, one that would be shared and enjoyed for years to come. And as I savored each bite, I knew that the love and passion I poured into my cooking would always be the secret ingredient that made every meal special.