Who would have thought Coca-Cola could create such a culinary masterpiece? This Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors to create a dish that’s as unique as it is mouthwatering. Marinated overnight and basted with a rich cola-based sauce, this tender roast is perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions. It’s a surefire way to wow your guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavors: The Coca-Cola marinade caramelizes beautifully, creating a sweet and tangy crust.
- Tender Meat: Marinating ensures the pork loin is juicy and flavorful.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple pantry staples, you’ll have a show-stopping main dish.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp dry mustard
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 (3-5 lb) pork loin roast
For the Cola Sauce:
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp dry mustard
- 2/3 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Pork
- In a baking dish, whisk together all the marinade ingredients.
- Place the pork loin in the marinade, ensuring it is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Roast the Pork
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
- Place the pork loin on a roasting rack in a pan. Roast for 30-40 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F.
3. Prepare the Cola Sauce
- While the pork is roasting, whisk together all sauce ingredients in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
4. Baste the Pork
- After the pork has roasted for most of the time, pour the cola sauce over the roast. Return it to the oven for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize.
5. Rest and Serve
- Allow the pork to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining cola sauce drizzled over the top for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Marination Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the pork for at least 12 hours.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to perfection.
- Extra Sauce: Double the cola sauce recipe if you want more for serving on the side.
Serving Suggestions
This Coca-Cola pork loin pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery to complement the tangy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a colorful plate.
- Buttery Rolls: Perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in a skillet over low heat with a splash of the cola sauce to keep them moist.
Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin Recipe