Pork Loin Basics: What It Is and How to Cook It

Pork loin is one of the most popular cuts of pork, appreciated for its tenderness, mild flavour, and versatility. Whether prepared as a whole roast, sliced into steaks, or grilled to perfection, pork loin offers a range of options for those who love lean yet flavourful meat. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at pork loin, its characteristics, various cooking methods, and tips to make the most of this classic cut.

What Is Pork Loin?

Pork loin is a long, boneless, and relatively lean cut that comes from the back of the pig, specifically from the area along the spine between the shoulder and the hind leg. It is characterised by its fine-grained texture and a fat cap along one side, which helps keep the meat moist during cooking. This cut can be found in several forms, including as a full roast, or it can be sliced into pork loin chops and steaks.

Gingin Grass Fed offers premium free-range pork loin roasts, expertly cut from the loin and ideal for slow roasting. These roasts are known for their succulence and rich flavour, making them a spectacular centrepiece for any meal. The free-range pork is sourced from local Western Australian farms committed to ethical and sustainable farming practices, ensuring a natural and wholesome product. To achieve the best results, it’s recommended to slow roast the pork loin, which allows for easy carving into neat portions. Gingin Grass Fed provides various roast sizes to suit different serving needs.

Characteristics of Pork Loin

• Texture: When cooked correctly, pork loin is lean and tender with minimal marbling, giving it a delicate texture.
• Flavour: Its mild, sweet flavour pairs well with various seasonings and marinades.
• Size: A typical pork loin weighs between 1 to 2 kilograms and can be up to 60 cm long, making it ideal for feeding a crowd or slicing into portions for individual meals.

Differences Between Pork Loin and Pork Tenderloin

Many people confuse pork loin with pork tenderloin, but they are different cuts with unique characteristics. Pork loin comes from the back and is larger, leaner, and ideal for roasting, while pork tenderloin is more petite, more tender, and suited for quicker cooking methods like searing or grilling. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure you choose the proper cut for your recipe.

Cooking Methods for Pork Loin

Pork loin is incredibly versatile and can be cooked in several ways, each method bringing out unique flavours and textures.

Roasting

Roasting is one of the most popular ways to cook pork loin, as it retains the meat’s moisture and enhances its natural flavour.

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 175°C. Season the pork loin generously with salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, or other herbs.
2. Cooking: Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and roast it for about 25 minutes per 500g until it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C.
3. Resting: Once cooked, let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

Roasting pork loin with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions in the same pan adds a hearty touch to your meal.

Grilling

Grilling pork loin adds a smoky flavour and is an excellent option during warmer months.

1. Preparation: Marinate or rub the pork loin with olive oil, herbs, and spices. Let it sit for at least an hour.
2. Cooking: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill the pork loin for 15-20 minutes per side, turning frequently.
3. Checking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 63°C for optimal doneness.

Slicing the pork loin into thick chops before grilling makes it easier to manage and reduces cooking time.

Searing and Finishing in the Oven

This method combines the flavours of pan-searing with the even cooking of roasting.

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 175°C and season the pork loin with your favourite spices.
2. Searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Sear the pork loin for 3-4 minutes on each side until it forms a golden crust.
3. Oven Finish: Transfer the seared pork loin to an oven-safe dish and bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C.

This method ensures the pork loin stays juicy while developing a rich, caramelised crust.

Braising

Braising is a method that works well for tougher cuts of meat, but it can also bring out deep flavours in pork loin.

1. Preparation: Season the pork loin and brown it in a hot pot with oil.
2. Braising: Add liquid, such as broth or wine, and aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs. Simmer on low heat until the pork is tender.
3. Serving: Serve the braised pork loin with the cooking sauce and vegetables for a comforting meal.

Braising adds moisture and enhances the natural sweetness of pork loin, making it perfect for cold-weather dishes.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Pork Loin

Cooking pork loin to perfection requires a few key considerations. Here are some tips to help you achieve tender and juicy results:

• Marinade: Marinating pork loin for a few hours or overnight can tenderise the meat and infuse it with flavour. Marinades with acidic components like vinegar, lemon, or yoghurt work best.
• Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature. Overcooking pork loin can lead to dry, tough meat.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step helps the juices redistribute, keeping each slice juicy.
• Season Well: Pork loin’s mild flavour can benefit from bold seasonings, including fresh herbs, garlic, pepper, and spices like smoked paprika or cumin.

Serving Suggestions

Pork loin’s versatility makes it suitable for a variety of side dishes. Here are a few classic pairings:

• Roasted Vegetables: For a balanced meal, serve with roasted carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
• Apple Sauce: The sweetness of apple sauce complements the savoury pork loin beautifully.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are comforting to a pork loin meal.
• Fresh Salad: For a lighter option, pair pork loin with a crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Wrapping up

Pork loin is a delicious and versatile cut that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering. Its mild flavour pairs well with various seasonings, and it can be cooked using several methods, from roasting to grilling. Following these tips and techniques, you can enjoy tender, juicy pork loin that showcases this popular cut’s best qualities. 

Check out Gingin Grass Fed for premium Australian pork and lamb options if you want to source quality meat.

Frequently Asked Questions