Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

Instructions: How to Make Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

1. Prepare the Pork Loin

Start by preparing your pork loin roast. If it’s not already trimmed, trim any excess fat from the roast to avoid it becoming too greasy during cooking. Season the roast generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

2. Make the Coca-Cola Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine Coca-Cola, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme. Stir the mixture together until the sugar is dissolved. This sweet and tangy marinade will not only flavor the pork but also help tenderize it as it cooks.

3. Marinate the Pork

Place the pork loin in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s completely covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate the pork for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better for maximum flavor infusion). If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade will still deliver great results.

4. Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature will allow the pork to cook evenly while letting the Coca-Cola glaze develop beautifully.

5. Sear the Pork

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, remove the pork from the marinade (but save the marinade for later) and sear it on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the meat is nicely browned. This step helps seal in the juices and creates a crispy exterior.

6. Roast the Pork

Once the pork is seared, pour the reserved marinade over the roast. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. Baste the pork every 30 minutes with the marinade to ensure it stays moist and develops a delicious, glossy glaze.

7. Rest the Pork

Once the pork loin is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy roast.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the pork loin into thick medallions and drizzle with the rich, caramelized Coca-Cola glaze from the roasting pan. This Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cornbread for a classic Southern meal.

Why You’ll Love Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

• Tender and Juicy: Thanks to the Coca-Cola marinade, the pork becomes incredibly tender, with a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the meat.
• Caramelized Glaze: As the Coca-Cola reduces in the oven, it forms a deliciously sticky glaze that coats the pork, giving it an irresistible golden brown finish.
• Unique Flavor: The combination of Coca-Cola, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard creates a unique sweet-and-tangy flavor profile that is both bold and comforting.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This dish is impressive enough for a holiday dinner or family gathering, yet easy enough for a weeknight meal. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

Variations and Tips

• Add Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can also make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply sear the pork, then place it in the slow cooker with the marinade and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the pork is tender and shreddable.
• Serve with Gravy: If you’d like to take the dish a step further, you can simmer the leftover marinade in a saucepan to reduce it into a thick gravy to serve with the pork.

Conclusion

Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a perfect example of how Southern cooking makes the most of simple ingredients to create bold, mouthwatering flavors. The combination of Coca-Cola’s sweetness and savory seasonings transforms a basic pork loin into a show-stopping meal. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just for a comforting dinner, this recipe is one you’ll want to add to your rotation. So grab that can of Coca-Cola, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a taste of the South!