Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

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Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin: A Sweet and Tangy Southern Delight

Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is an unforgettable dish that combines tender pork with the bold flavors of Coca-Cola and a host of Southern pantry staples. This unique method of marinating meat in soda might seem unusual at first, but once you taste the rich, caramelized flavors and juicy tenderness, you’ll understand why it’s a hit at the dinner table. The combination of Coca-Cola, soy sauce, mustard, and garlic results in a pork loin that’s sweet, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

If you’re looking to impress family or guests with something truly unique yet deeply flavorful, this Coca-Cola pork loin recipe is the perfect dish. Let’s explore how this delightful roast is made and why it’s worth adding to your regular meal rotation.

Why This Coca-Cola Pork Loin Will Be Your New Favorite Recipe

Coca-Cola in cooking may sound like a bold choice, but its effect on meat is nothing short of magic. Here’s why this Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin recipe stands out:

  • Flavorful Marinade: The Coca-Cola marinade tenderizes the pork while infusing it with a delicious combination of sweetness and tang. The result is a juicy pork loin that’s full of flavor with a delicate caramelized crust.
  • Tender and Moist: The marinade works to keep the pork loin incredibly moist, and the basting process ensures the meat stays juicy throughout roasting.
  • Southern Twist: Classic Southern ingredients like soy sauce, mustard, and balsamic vinegar add a complexity of flavors that elevate this dish. The unique combination of Coca-Cola and these pantry staples creates a sweet-savory balance that’s both familiar and new.
  • Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with all ages, even picky eaters, making it a great choice for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions.

Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite due to its flavor-packed marinade, ease of preparation, and outstanding results.

Ingredients for Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

To make this Coca-Cola pork loin, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for the marinade and the sauce:

Marinade:

  • 1 cup Coca-Cola – The star ingredient that tenderizes the pork while imparting a subtle sweetness and tang.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce – Adds saltiness and depth, balancing out the sweetness of the Coca-Cola.
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil – Helps coat the meat and ensures a rich, flavorful surface.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Adds tang and a slight sharpness to the marinade.
  • 1/3 cup ketchup – For additional sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Introduces a bit of umami to complement the sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon dry mustard – Enhances the tang and complexity of the marinade.
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Brings a savory depth to the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Adds a warm, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the Coca-Cola.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – Adds acidity and richness to balance the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a mild, herbaceous note to the marinade.

Cola Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce and give it a syrupy consistency.
  • 1 cup brown sugar – Creates the sweetness and caramelization needed for the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard – For added tang and spice.
  • 2/3 cup Coca-Cola – Reinforces the cola flavor in the sauce.
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar – Complements the sweetness with a deep, tangy undertone.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Season to your preference for a balanced flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making this Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin. The recipe consists of marinating the pork loin, roasting it, and preparing a delicious sauce that enhances the flavors of the meat. Follow these easy steps for the best results.

Step 1: Marinate the Pork Loin

Start by whisking together all the marinade ingredients in a baking dish or large resealable bag. Make sure the Coca-Cola, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and other ingredients are fully combined.

Place the pork loin in the dish or bag, ensuring it’s fully coated with the marinade. Cover or seal, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. The longer the pork marinates, the more the flavors will soak in, and the Coca-Cola will tenderize the meat, ensuring a juicy roast.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Roast the Pork

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Once the pork has marinated, remove it from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Discard the used marinade.

Place the pork loin on a roasting pan and roast it in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes per pound. The goal is to cook the pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C). The pork should be fork-tender at this point, thanks to the Coca-Cola marinade.

Step 3: Prepare the Cola Sauce

While the pork is roasting, it’s time to make the Coca-Cola sauce. In a saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, brown sugar, butter, dry mustard, Coca-Cola, and balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes syrupy.

Once the sauce is ready, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Baste the Pork and Continue Roasting

After the pork has been roasting for about 30 minutes, pour the prepared Coca-Cola sauce over the pork loin, basting it to ensure the meat stays moist and flavorful. Return the pork to the oven and roast for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize and form a beautiful lacquered exterior.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the pork loin has finished roasting, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Slice the pork into thick servings, and serve with your favorite sides. The caramelized, cola-infused exterior will add incredible flavor to each bite.

Why Coca-Cola Works as a Marinade

Marinating pork in Coca-Cola might seem strange, but this sweet soda actually helps break down the proteins in the meat, making it incredibly tender. The natural sugars in Coca-Cola also help create a caramelized exterior as the pork roasts, resulting in a delicious sticky glaze that enhances the flavor of the meat. The soda, combined with savory and tangy ingredients like soy sauce, mustard, and garlic, gives the pork a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s both familiar and surprising.

Conclusion

The Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a bold and delicious twist on a classic roast. With a flavorful marinade and a rich, caramelized sauce, this pork loin is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and become a regular in your cooking repertoire.

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