Marinating meat in soda pop seems like an odd technique at first glance.
But when that soda happens to be Coca-Cola and it’s paired with classic Southern flavors like garlic, mustard and brown sugar, you get a pork loin that’s sweet, tangy, and irresistibly tender.
This oven-roasted pork loin starts by being coated in a sticky, cola-infused blend of pantry staples.
As the meat roasts, the marinade ingredients caramelize, forming an incredible lacquered exterior over the juicy, subtly Coca-Cola flavored meat. Let’s take a closer look at how the ingredients transform this classic cut of pork into something extraordinary.
The Secret’s in the Marinade
The marinade does triple duty here. First, it tenderizes the lean pork loin so it turns out incredibly moist and fork-tender.
Next, it adds a complex blend of sweet and tangy flavors that complement the pork.
Finally, it helps form a delicious crisp, caramelized exterior as it bakes.
In addition to the soda, the marinade contains flavor-boosting ingredients like:
Soy sauce – for saltiness and umami
Ketchup and mustard – for tang and spice
Worcestershire and balsamic – for depth of flavor
Garlic, ginger, thyme – aromatic flavors
You’ll want the pork to marinate for a full 24 hours.
This gives time for the meat to fully absorb all the flavors and for the soda to work its tenderizing magic.
Basting Keeps it Moist
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