If you’re looking to elevate your dinner table with a unique yet comforting dish, look no further than the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin. This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of pork with the sweet, tangy goodness of Coca-Cola and a few key ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy to make and impressive enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special celebration, this dish will surely become a favorite.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin, from preparing the marinade to roasting the pork to perfection. Plus, we’ll explore some helpful tips and tricks for making sure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients needed for this dish. Thankfully, they’re easy to find, and many of them may already be in your kitchen!

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 boneless pork loin (approximately 3-4 pounds)
2 cups Coca-Cola
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe calls for classic ingredients, there are a few easy substitutions if you have dietary restrictions or just want to try a variation. For instance, if you’re avoiding soy sauce, you can replace it with tamari for a gluten-free option. Likewise, feel free to swap out Dijon mustard for yellow mustard or even spicy brown mustard for an added kick. Experimenting with these variations can give the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin a fun twist!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on making this incredibly flavorful dish! The steps are simple, and the result is a juicy, flavorful pork loin that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin

The first step in making your Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is to prepare the pork loin itself. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Next, season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps to enhance the natural flavors of the pork while also allowing the marinade to penetrate the meat more effectively. You can also score the surface of the pork with a sharp knife to allow the marinade to soak deeper into the meat.

Once the pork loin is seasoned, it’s time to make the marinade.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

The magic behind the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin lies in the marinade. This combination of ingredients is what gives the pork its sweet and savory flavor profile. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the following:

2 cups Coca-Cola – This will infuse the pork with sweetness while also helping to tenderize the meat.
1 cup brown sugar – Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that perfectly complements the Coca-Cola.
½ cup soy sauce – Soy sauce brings saltiness and umami, balancing the sweetness of the Coca-Cola and sugar.
¼ cup Dijon mustard – Dijon mustard adds a touch of tanginess and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the marinade a savory, aromatic boost.

Stir the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved. This will create a smooth, flavorful marinade that’s perfect for soaking into the pork.

Step 3: Marinate the Pork Loin

Now that you have your marinade ready, it’s time to marinate the pork loin. Place the seasoned pork loin into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

For the best results, allow the pork to marinate overnight. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, making the pork even more flavorful and tender.

Step 4: Sear the Pork Loin

Once the pork loin has marinated to perfection, it’s time to sear it. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, remove the pork loin from the marinade and place it in the skillet. Sear the pork on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it develops a nice golden-brown crust.

Searing the pork creates a flavorful crust that locks in juices and enhances the overall flavor of the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; if your skillet isn’t large enough, sear the pork in batches.

Step 5: Roast the Pork Loin

After searing the pork, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s fully coated. The marinade will infuse the pork as it roasts, creating a beautiful glaze.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the pork for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the pork loin. This ensures that the pork is cooked through but still juicy and tender.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the pork is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and flavorful. After resting, slice the pork loin into thin slices, drizzle with the remaining sauce from the baking dish, and serve.

The Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The sweet and savory glaze makes it a perfect dish for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or a weeknight treat.

Tips for Making the Best Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

1. Don’t Rush the Marinating Process

The key to making your Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin extra flavorful is allowing the pork to marinate for as long as possible. While 2 hours is the minimum recommended, marinating overnight will give you the best results. The longer the pork sits in the marinade, the more the flavors will infuse into the meat.

2. Sear the Pork Loin Well

Searing the pork before roasting creates a flavorful crust and helps to lock in moisture. Be sure to get a good sear on all sides to ensure the best flavor and texture.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer

Overcooked pork can become dry, so it’s essential to monitor the internal temperature of your pork loin. The recommended temperature for cooked pork is 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can use a fork to check if the meat is done, but a thermometer ensures accuracy.

4. Rest the Pork After Roasting

Resting the pork after roasting allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier, more tender piece of meat. Don’t skip this step, as it makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you enjoyed making this Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin, why not try these other delicious recipes that are just as flavorful and easy to prepare?

Baked Pork Tenderloin: This simple yet delicious recipe uses pork tenderloin, a leaner cut of pork, and creates a tender, juicy dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Gordon Ramsay’s Ultimate Beef Stroganoff Recipe: A rich and creamy beef stroganoff that is ideal for a comforting dinner, featuring tender beef and a flavorful mushroom sauce.
Creamy Garlic Sauce Steak: A decadent steak recipe with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that will elevate any steak dinner to the next level.

Nutritional Information

The Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin serves about 8 people, and each serving has the following nutritional breakdown:

Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 16g

These values may vary depending on the exact portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin

1. Is Coca-Cola good for pulled pork?

Yes, Coca-Cola is great for making pulled pork! The sweetness and acidity of the soda help tenderize the meat, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful. While this recipe uses Coca-Cola for marinating a pork loin, you can also use it for slow-cooked pulled pork. The carbonation and sugar break down the meat fibers, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re making pulled pork in a slow cooker, the addition of Coca-Cola gives the dish a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory elements.

2. Is pork loin a good cut of pork?

Pork loin is an excellent cut of pork for many recipes, including the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin. It’s a lean, tender cut that cooks quickly and remains juicy when prepared correctly. Pork loin is versatile and can be roasted, grilled, or even slow-cooked. It offers a mild flavor, allowing marinades and seasonings to shine. Because it’s leaner than some other cuts, like pork shoulder, it’s a healthier option while still providing a satisfying texture and flavor.

3. Does cola tenderize pork?

Yes, cola can effectively tenderize pork! The acids and sugars in Coca-Cola help break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender and juicy. The carbonation also aids in softening the pork, which is why many recipes use cola in marinades for tougher cuts of meat. In the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin, the Coca-Cola marinade infuses the pork with sweetness and helps it become wonderfully tender after marinating and roasting. Just be sure to marinate the meat for the recommended time to achieve the best results.

4. Is pork loin tough to eat?

No, pork loin is not typically tough to eat, especially when cooked properly. Pork loin is a lean and tender cut, but it can become tough if overcooked or not prepared with care. To avoid toughness, it’s essential to cook the pork loin to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), then let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. The rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender. If you’re concerned about tenderness, marinating the pork loin (as in the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin recipe) will also help to ensure it’s juicy and easy to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

The Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is an ideal recipe for anyone looking to add a sweet and savory twist to their dinner table. With its tender pork and flavorful Coca-Cola marinade, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s easy to prepare and will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor.

Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful taste of Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin tonight!

Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin: Sweet and Tender Recipe

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Author: MixMealMagic
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a deliciously tender and flavorful roast, marinated in a sweet and savory Coca-Cola sauce. The combination of Coca-Cola, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic creates a rich glaze that infuses the pork with moisture and depth of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe ensures your pork loin is juicy and succulent with every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

1 boneless pork loin (approximately 3–4 pounds)
2 cups Coca-Cola
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare Pork Loin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the pork loin with salt and pepper, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Mix Marinade: In a bowl, combine Coca-Cola, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely.
Marinate Pork Loin: Place the seasoned pork loin into a resealable bag or large dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
Cook Pork Loin: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides for about 2-3 minutes each, ensuring a golden-brown crust.
Roast Pork Loin: Transfer the seared pork to a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the pork loin and roast in the oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Serve: Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the sliced pork and enjoy!

Notes

For optimal flavor, marinate the pork loin overnight for a richer taste.
Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
The marinade also works well as a sauce. Don’t hesitate to spoon extra sauce over the pork when serving for more flavor.
For a crispier exterior, broil the pork for 2-3 minutes after roasting to get a golden crust.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Dish
Method: Roasting, Searing
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 4 ounces)
Calories: 330 kcal
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 630mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg