Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary pork roast into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. This Pear Apple Pork Roast is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich, tender meat with the sweet and tangy notes of caramelized fruits. Perfect for those looking to elevate their dinner game with a recipe that's both impressive and surprisingly easy to prepare, this dish promises to become your new go-to showstopper in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork roast
- 2 pears, sliced
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and sear the pork roast on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the pork roast from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced pears and apples to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle thyme over the fruit mixture.
- Return the pork roast to the skillet, nestling it among the fruit and onions. Pour the chicken broth around the roast, ensuring it doesn't pour directly on top of the meat.
- Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Transfer to the preheated oven and roast for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the pork roast and serve with the caramelized pears and apples, spooning the pan juices over the top.
Tips
- Meat Selection: Choose a well-marbled pork roast for maximum tenderness and flavor. Look for cuts like pork shoulder or Boston butt for the best results.
- Searing Secrets: Pat the meat completely dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. A hot skillet is key to developing those delicious caramelized edges.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches the perfect 145°F internal temperature. This guarantees a juicy, perfectly cooked roast every time.
- Fruit Selection: Choose firm, slightly underripe pears and apples that will hold their shape during cooking. This ensures they caramelize beautifully without turning to mush.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let your roast rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Pan Sauce Perfection: Don't discard those delicious pan juices! Spoon them over the sliced meat for an extra burst of flavor that will make this dish truly unforgettable.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This roast actually tastes even better the next day, so don't be afraid to prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
