Coca-Cola Braised Pork Loin

This Coca-Cola Braised Pork Loin recipe delivers a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s sure to impress! The Coca-Cola helps tenderize the pork while adding a unique caramelized flavor, and the sauce made with ketchup, soy sauce, and spices gives it a rich, tangy finish. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 cup Coca-Cola (avoid diet versions)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 (3-4 pound) pork loin roast
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Season the Pork

• Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This will bring out the flavors of the pork and enhance the sauce.

Step 3: Sear the Pork

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Sear the pork loin on all sides until it’s a golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, combine the following ingredients:
  • 1 cup Coca-Cola
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• Stir the sauce well and bring it to a simmer. This will allow the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Pork

• Return the seared pork loin to the skillet with the sauce, spooning some of the sauce over the top of the pork.
• Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil.

Step 6: Bake

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste the pork occasionally with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Once done, remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Slice the pork loin into medallions and serve with the remaining sauce from the skillet, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• For an extra touch, drizzle more of the sauce over the sides or serve with a light salad to balance the richness of the pork.

Tips & Variations:

• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for an extra layer of acidity that complements the sweetness of the Coca-Cola.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on how sweet or savory you like your sauce.
• Spicy Option: If you like a bit of heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or even add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• The Coca-Cola helps tenderize the pork, giving it a melt-in-your-mouth texture while infusing it with a slight sweetness.
• The soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce provide a savory balance, and the garlic and Dijon mustard give the dish complexity.
• It’s easy to prepare, requires just a few ingredients, and works beautifully as a weeknight dinner or for special occasions.

Enjoy your Coca-Cola Braised Pork Loin—a flavorful and tender dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table! 😋