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Sweet & Savory Apple Butter Glazed Pork Loin is a dish that beautifully marries the rich flavors of pork with the delightful sweetness of apple butter. This recipe showcases the importance of balancing sweet and savory elements in cooking, creating a meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The versatility of pork loin makes it suitable for various occasions, from a cozy family dinner to a festive holiday gathering. With its tender texture and robust flavor profile, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.

Apple Butter Glazed Pork Loin

Explore the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this Apple Butter Glazed Pork Loin recipe! Combining tender pork with rich apple butter, this dish is ideal for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. Learn how to marinate the pork for maximum flavor and achieve a beautifully caramelized finish. Serve it with vibrant sides, and impress your guests with this deliciously balanced meal that highlights seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a slice of culinary delight!
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Ingredients
  

2 to 3 lb pork loin, trimmed of excess fat

1 cup apple butter

1/2 cup apple cider (preferably unfiltered)

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, thinly sliced

2 apples, cored and sliced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for tartness)

Optional: Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the apple butter, apple cider, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

    Marinate the Pork: Place the pork loin in a resealable plastic bag, or a shallow dish. Pour half of the apple butter marinade over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor infusion.

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

        Sear the Pork: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, remove the pork from the marinade (set the remaining marinade aside) and sear the pork loin on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side.

          Add the Onions and Apples: Carefully take the seared pork out of the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and apple slices. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the apples start to soften.

            Bake the Pork: Place the seared pork loin back into the skillet atop the sautéed onions and apples. Using a brush, apply the reserved marinade generously over the top of the pork loin. Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven.

              Cook Until Done: Roast the pork in the oven for approximately 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For extra flavor, baste the pork with the pan juices halfway through the cooking time.

                Rest the Pork: Once the pork is done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the pork loin to rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender roast.

                  Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the pork loin into medallions. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and top with the caramelized apples and onions from the skillet. Drizzle with extra apple butter if desired and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an aromatic finish.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                      - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the dish on a rustic wooden board or a white platter, garnishing with additional rosemary sprigs alongside the fresh thyme. Consider pairing with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.