This recipe combines the richness of marinated pork loin with a creamy rice side dish, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram pork loin
- 50 milliliters soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon chimichurri (optional)
- 3 cups (720 milliliters) white rice
- 2 red bell peppers, diced
- 400 milliliters heavy cream
- 400 milliliters chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment Needed:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large bowl
- Baking dish or oven-proof pan
- Kitchen twine
- Wire rack
Instructions:
1. Marinating the Pork Loin:
Begin by preparing the pork loin for marinating:
- Place the pork loin on a clean cutting board. Using the tip of a knife, pierce the pork loin several times. This helps the marinade penetrate the meat, ensuring maximum flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, black pepper, sweet paprika, and chimichurri (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Pour the marinade over the pork loin, ensuring that it coats all sides evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pork loin and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
2. Preparing the Creamy Rice:
While the pork loin marinates, prepare the creamy rice:
- Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
- In a large baking dish or oven-proof pan, combine the white rice, diced red bell peppers, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- The creamy rice mixture will serve as a bed for the pork loin while cooking, absorbing the flavors from the meat and creating a delicious side dish.
3. Cooking the Pork Loin:
After the marinating time is complete, proceed to cook the pork loin:
- Remove the marinated pork loin from the refrigerator. Place it on a cutting board and tie it with kitchen twine at intervals to help it maintain its shape during cooking.
- Place a wire rack over the baking dish with the creamy rice mixture. Rest the pork loin on the rack so that any juices released during cooking can drip into the rice, enhancing its flavor.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven. Roast the pork loin at 320°F (160°C) for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork loin reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. Baste the pork loin occasionally with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
4. Serving the Dish:
Once the pork loin is cooked to your desired doneness, follow these steps to serve:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Carefully transfer the pork loin to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring tender and juicy slices.
- Meanwhile, stir the creamy rice mixture in the baking dish to combine the flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, slice the rested pork loin into thick slices. Spoon some of the creamy rice onto each plate and place the pork loin slices on top. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the pork loin slices for added flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Marinating Time: Marinate the pork loin for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop and penetrate the meat.
- Rice Texture: The creamy rice absorbs the flavors from the pork juices and cream, resulting in a rich and flavorful side dish.
- Oven Temperature: Cooking the pork loin at a lower temperature (320°F) ensures even cooking and prevents the meat from drying out.
This recipe for marinated pork loin with creamy rice offers a comforting and flavorful meal option that’s sure to impress. The tender, marinated pork pairs beautifully with the creamy, flavorful rice, making it a delightful dish for any occasion.
Ready to elevate your dinner table with this delicious pork loin recipe? Follow the steps, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the rich flavors of marinated pork loin with creamy rice. Whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit!
