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#### **Step 2: Make the Cranberry Glaze**
While the pork is searing, you can prepare the cranberry glaze.
1. **Cook the Cranberries**: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and cinnamon (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
2. **Thicken the Glaze**: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the cranberry mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
#### **Step 3: Roast the Pork Loin**
Once the pork loin is seared, it’s time to roast it:
1. **Brush with Glaze**: Pour about half of the cranberry glaze over the seared pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze to serve with the pork after roasting.
2. **Roast the Pork**: Transfer the skillet or pan with the pork loin to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for **25-30 minutes**, or until the internal temperature reaches **145°F (63°C)**. While roasting, baste the pork with the remaining glaze halfway through the cooking time to infuse more flavor.
3. **Rest the Pork**: Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring the pork stays moist and tender.
#### **Step 4: Slice and Serve**
After resting, slice the pork loin into thick, juicy slices. Serve it with a drizzle of the leftover cranberry glaze. The tangy sweetness of the cranberries paired with the savory pork is a match made in heaven!
### **Serving Suggestions**
This **Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin** pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Serve the pork with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a colorful and healthy side.
– **Mashed Potatoes**: The rich, creamy texture of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the sweet and savory flavors of the pork.
– **Rice or Quinoa**: A light, fluffy grain like rice or quinoa makes an excellent side dish that soaks up the flavorful glaze.
– **Green Beans Almondine**: The crispness of green beans with toasted almonds adds a delightful crunch to the meal.
### **Tips for Perfect Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin**
– **Choose the Right Cut**: Boneless pork loin works best for this recipe as it’s lean and cooks evenly. You can also use bone-in pork loin if you prefer, but it may require a bit more time in the oven.
– **Don’t Overcook**: Pork loin can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Once it reaches 145°F (63°C), remove it from the oven to ensure a juicy result.
– **Make Ahead**: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the cranberry glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also sear and roast the pork ahead of time, then reheat it in the oven with the glaze just before serving.
– **Balance the Sweetness**: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or add a splash of vinegar to balance the sweetness with more acidity.
### **Final Thoughts**
This **Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin** is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of the pork with the tart sweetness of cranberries. It’s a fantastic choice for holiday dinners, special occasions, or even a weeknight meal that feels festive and flavorful. The best part? It’s easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort while delivering a gourmet result.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will surely impress and satisfy every palate. So, grab a pork loin, some fresh cranberries, and get ready to savor the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite!
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