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As the crisp air of autumn settles in, it invites a shift in our culinary focus towards hearty, comforting dishes that celebrate the season's bounty. One standout recipe that encapsulates the essence of fall is the Herb Roasted Pork Loin with Apples. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a harmonious blend of flavors that speaks to the heart of autumn dining. With succulent pork, aromatic herbs, and the sweet-tart notes of fresh apples, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners at home.

Herb Roasted Pork Loin with Apples

Celebrate the beauty of autumn with a delicious Herb Roasted Pork Loin with Apples! This recipe highlights tender pork infused with aromatic herbs and complemented by the sweet-tart flavor of apples. Perfect for family gatherings, it combines savory and sweet elements, making every bite a harmonious experience. Discover tips for selecting ingredients, creating an herb rub, and achieving the perfect roast. Elevate your fall dining with this delightful dish that captures the essence of the season!
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Ingredients
  

2 to 3 pounds pork loin, trimmed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 cups apples, cored and sliced (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)

1 medium onion, sliced

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for roasting.

    Prepare the Herb Rub: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a fragrant herb paste that will enhance the flavor of the pork.

      Season the Pork Loin: Generously rub the herb mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld and penetrate the meat.

        Prepare the Fruit and Onions: In a large roasting pan, spread out the sliced apples and onions. Drizzle the mixture with honey and balsamic vinegar, tossing gently to ensure even coverage. This combination will caramelize beautifully as it roasts.

          Sear the Pork Loin: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork loin and sear it on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing is optional but adds an incredible depth of flavor and color to the finished dish.

            Roast the Pork Loin: Once seared, place the pork loin on top of the apple and onion mixture in the roasting pan. Carefully pour the chicken broth into the pan, taking care not to disturb the apple and onion layer.

              Bake: Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 45 minutes. After this initial cooking time, remove the foil and continue to roast for another 30-45 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Halfway through cooking, baste the pork with the pan juices to enhance flavor and moisture.

                Rest the Meat: Once cooked, take the pork loin out of the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy.

                  Serve: Slice the rested pork loin into thick, juicy pieces and serve alongside the caramelized apples and onions. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the slices for an extra burst of flavor.

                    Enjoy! For a complete meal, pair this delightful dish with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 2 hours | 6 servings