When it comes to cooking THE best pork loin, Trisha Yearwood has a recipe that definitely stands out.
You start by seasoning the pork with a blend of garlic powder, ginger, dried thyme, and black pepper. Salivating yet?
What I love is letting the pork soak up the flavors of chicken broth, lemon juice, and soy sauce while it cooks gently in the slow cooker for hours.
Browning the pork on all sides before slow cooking really locks in the flavors and gives a fantastic color.
This dish is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for feeding your family!
How to Make Trisha Yearwood Pork Loin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pork loin (3-4 pounds)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Ground Ginger
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Trim any visible fat from the pork loin to keep it lean.
If needed, cut the pork to fit your slow cooker.
Step 2:
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, ginger, thyme, and black pepper.
Rub this spice blend evenly over the pork loin.
Step 3:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown the pork loin on all sides for about 5 minutes.
Step 4:
Transfer the browned pork to the slow cooker.
Combine chicken broth, lemon juice, and soy sauce in a separate bowl.
Pour this mixture over the pork.
Step 5:
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until tender.
Once it’s done, transfer to a platter and let it rest before slicing.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients
Always opt for fresh herbs instead of dried ones in this recipe for an extra burst of flavor.
They make the dish even more aromatic and delicious when slow-cooked.
Enhance the Gravy
After removing the pork, transfer cooking liquid to a saucepan, simmer and reduce to thicken the gravy.
This adds richness and complexity to the sauce, perfect for drizzling over your pork loin or sides.
Adjust Slow Cooker Settings
If you’re in a hurry, use your slow cooker on high to cut the cooking time by half.
This flexibility allows you to adapt your cooking schedule while still getting tender results.
Rest Before Slicing
Let the pork rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
Resting time ensures each slice is juicy and flavorful, enhancing your dining experience.
Serve with Seasonal Vegetables
While slow cooking, add seasonal vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a complete meal.
They soak up the flavorful juices, offering a nutritious and tasty complement to the pork.
What to Serve with Trisha Yearwood Pork Loin Recipe
Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes when serving pork loin!
Their creamy texture complements the savory flavors of the pork perfectly and creates a comforting, satisfying meal.
To make it extra special, try adding roasted garlic or chives to your mashed potatoes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
If you’re looking for something a little more green, roasted Brussels sprouts are a great choice!
They add a bit of crunch and a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the pork.
A sprinkle of balsamic vinegar can enhance the flavor profile.
Quinoa Salad
A quinoa salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese offers a lighter and refreshing option.
It’s easy to prepare and the tanginess of feta cheese adds an unexpected twist that works well with pork loin.
Skip this option if you’d prefer not to use quinoa.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole brings a sweet and savory contrast to the pork dish, and its silky texture is a treat on the palate!
You can top it with marshmallows or pecans for an additional layer of flavor.
Grilled Peaches
For a surprising and delightful twist, serve grilled peaches on the side.
The natural sweetness and slight caramelization from grilling can create a taste sensation that pairs beautifully with the savory pork.
Plus, the vibrant colors look stunning on the plate!
Variations and Substitutions
Slow Cooker Options
You can swap the pork loin for pork shoulder if you want a juicier result with a bit more fat.
Try adding different root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a twist on the classic addition of potatoes and carrots.
Spices and Seasonings
Mix in smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky flavor profile that adds depth to the dish.
Replace dried thyme with rosemary, which pairs well with pork and provides a fragrant aroma.
Liquid Alternatives
Use apple cider or apple juice instead of chicken broth for a fruity hint that complements the pork’s flavor.
Soy sauce can be adjusted with tamari for a gluten-free option without losing umami.
Cooking Techniques
You can skip the browning step for a milder flavor, though I find it adds a great crust!
Adjust the cooking time by setting your slow cooker to high for faster results when you’re pressed for time—the pork will still be tender!
How to Store Leftover Pork Loin
To make the most of your delicious Trisha Yearwood pork loin recipe, proper storage is key.
Leftover pork loin can be kept fresh and flavorful with just a few easy steps!
Refrigeration Tips
Once you’re done with the meal, promptly transfer the pork loin to an airtight container.
Aim to store it in the refrigerator within two hours to maintain its juiciness and texture.
It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing Instructions
If you plan to keep the leftovers longer, freezing is a great option!
Wrap the pork loin tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag, and it can last for 3-4 months.
Label and Portion
Label each container with the date, so you remember how long it’s been stored.
Consider slicing the pork loin before storing for easier portioning later on.
This way, you can reheat only what you need instead of the whole piece.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect Cooking Time
One common mistake is not adjusting the cooking time for the size of your pork loin.
If your loin is larger, you might need to let it cook a bit longer to reach that perfect tenderness!
Skipping the Searing Step
You might be tempted to skip the searing step before putting the pork in the slow cooker.
Searing adds a depth of flavor that really makes a difference in the final dish.
Not Adjusting Seasoning
Another pitfall is not tasting and adjusting the seasoning of the sauce.
The right balance of garlic, thyme, and soy sauce can elevate your pork loin and enhance its natural flavors.
Trisha Yearwood Pork Loin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pork loin 3-4 pounds
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Ground Ginger
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Trim any visible fat from the pork loin to keep it lean.
- If needed, cut the pork to fit your slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, ginger, thyme, and black pepper.
- Rub this spice blend evenly over the pork loin.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the pork loin on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the browned pork to the slow cooker.
- Combine chicken broth, lemon juice, and soy sauce in a separate bowl.
- Pour this mixture over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until tender.
- Once it's done, transfer to a platter and let it rest before slicing.