Cooking a pork roast may seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, ingredients and some patience, it can result in a mouthwatering centerpiece for any special occasion dinner. Pork roasts like the Hormel Always Tender are flavorful, juicy and tender when cooked properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook a perfect pork roast.
Ingredients
- 1 (3-5 lb) Hormel Always Tender bone-in pork loin roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces
- 3 stalks celery, cut into 3-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Equipment
- Roasting pan with rack
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
Step 1 – Prepare the Pork Roasts
Take the pork roast out of the refrigerator and let it come closer to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme and rosemary in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork roast. This helps flavor the meat and creates a crust while cooking.
Step 2 – Brown the Roast
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Place a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. Heat the pan over medium-high heat on the stove. Carefully place the pork roast in the hot pan and brown for 3-4 minutes per side. This seals in the juices and gives the roast color. Remove the pan from heat.
Step 3 – Add Vegetables
Surround the roast with the onion, carrots, celery and garlic. Pour the broth into the bottom of the pan. The moisture from the broth mixes with the juices from the roast as it cooks, resulting in a flavorful sauce.
Step 4 – Roast in the Oven
Cover the pork tightly with aluminum foil. Roast for 1 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F on a meat thermometer. Remove foil and continue roasting 15 more minutes to develop color and flavor. The roast is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 150-155°F.
Step 5 – Make Gravy
Once the roast reaches the desired temperature, transfer it to a cutting board to rest for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat before slicing. To make gravy, pour the pan drippings through a mesh strainer into a liquid measuring cup. Let stand 5 minutes, then skim the fat off the top. Pour the defatted drippings into a small saucepan. Make a roux by whisking in 2 tablespoons flour. Cook 1 minute over medium heat. Whisk in 1 cup broth, scraping any brown bits in the pan. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6 – Carve and Serve
Carve the rested pork roast into slices. Serve drizzled with gravy alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes or brussels sprouts. Enjoy this flavorful and foolproof pork roast dinner!
Tips for Perfect Pork Roast
- Choose the right cut. Look for a boneless or bone-in pork loin roast for the ideal texture.
- Brine it. Soaking the raw roast in a saltwater brine ensures seasoned, moist meat.
- Use a meat thermometer. It’s the only way to accurately determine doneness.
- Let it rest. Allowing the roast to rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute.
- Make gravy. Use the flavorful pan drippings to make an easy, tasty gravy.
Common Questions
What is the best cut of pork for roasting?
The best cuts of pork for roasting are the loin and tenderloin. A center cut boneless or bone-in pork loin roast offers the most flavor and juiciness once cooked.
Should you brine pork roast?
Brining is highly recommended for pork roasts. The saltwater solution seasons the meat throughout and helps it retain moisture as it cooks, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful roast.
How long does it take to roast a 3 pound pork loin?
A 3 pound boneless pork loin roast takes approximately 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours to cook in a 325°F oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
What is the minimum internal temperature for pork?
The USDA recommends cooking pork to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F with a 3 minute rest. The pork should then reach a final internal temp of 150-155°F after resting.
Should pork roast be covered while cooking?
Yes, pork roasts should be covered tightly with foil while cooking to prevent the exterior from drying out. Remove foil near the end to brown and develop flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Fat | 13g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 25g |
Conclusion
Hormel Always Tender pork roasts deliver incredibly moist, flavorful meat when roasted low and slow. Browning, brining and using a meat thermometer are keys to pork roast success. Resting allows juices to redistribute before slicing. Served with gravy and vegetables, it makes for an impressive and comforting main course. Follow this foolproof method for a perfect pork roast dinner.