| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 2 hrs 40 mins – 3 hrs | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 800 | 45g | 20g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 20g | 4g | 60g | 0.9g |
Estimating the roots of the love I have for the Thyme Garlic Pork Roast can be a bit tricky. It could be because it’s a warmly delightful dish that’s truly a comfort food for me. There might also be an element of nostalgia in it, as my Italian-American family often prepared similar hearty meat-centric meals. However, I’d be remiss not to acknowledge the unique kick that the addition of fruits to this savory selection adds. Whatever the case, the Thyme Garlic Pork Roast has been a staple at my family gatherings and I find joy every time I prepare it.
The Soulful Blend of Ingredients
One of my favorite aspects of this dish, aside from the obvious taste benefits, is the health value it provides. Along with the incredibly succulent pork roast, the recipe incorporates drool-worthy seasonings such as minced garlic and fresh thyme, both well known for their potential health benefits. Garlic, for instance, has been known to have heart-friendly advantages and thyme as an herb is rich in vitamin C and also has antioxidant properties. The “apple of my eye” in this recipe, forgetting the pun, is the addition of tart and sweet apples, as well as a choice pear. These fruits not only add a wholesome sweet balance to the savory roast, but also up its fiber content, making this dish an irresistible combination of delicious and healthy.
A Perfect Pairing
What’s the perfect side to a Thyme Garlic Pork Roast? As someone who embraces family traditions and hearty meals, I would highly recommend a side of homemade mashed potatoes or a warm Italian bread. The pork roast pairs beautifully with the smoothness of mashed potatoes, while a crusty bread can soak up the wonderful juice and flavors of the roast. If you’re interested in the specifics of preparing these side dishes, my friends at Bon Appétit have some excellent recipes.
Serving this Thyme Garlic Pork Roast at your next family gathering will certainly add an extra layer of love and warmth to your table. Though the ingredients are humble, when brought together, they form a magical symphony that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nurtures your health. So, from my home to yours, here’s to bringing family, tradition and healthful meals to your table. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 3 pounds pork roast
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups apple juice
- 1 tart apple, cored and sliced
- 1 sweet apple, cored and sliced
- 1 large pear, cored and sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced fresh thyme, salt, black pepper and olive oil. Rub this mixture all over the pork roast.
Step Two
Place the pork roast in a roasting pan. Pour the melted unsalted butter over the pork, and then pour the apple juice into the bottom of the pan.
Step Three
Arrange the cored and sliced tart apple, sweet apple, and pear around the pork. Scatter the dried cranberries over the fruit and in the apple juice.
Step Four
Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius). Baste the pork and fruit with the apple juice mixture several times during cooking.
Step Five
Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. You can also drizzle some of the juice and fruit on top of the slices for added flavor.
