Why You’ll Love This Pressure Cooker Pork Loin Recipe
When you try this Pressure Cooker Pork Loin recipe, you’ll quickly realize why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The tender, juicy meat practically melts in your mouth, and the flavors are simply irresistible.
It’s not just about the taste, though; it’s also about how quickly it comes together. In under an hour, you can serve a gourmet meal that impresses family and friends.
Plus, the cleanup is a breeze! I love how versatile it is, pairing perfectly with various sides.
You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients of Pressure Cooker Pork Loin
When it comes to cooking, having the right ingredients on hand is essential, especially for a delicious dish like Pressure Cooker Pork Loin. This recipe isn’t just about throwing things into a pot; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds.
You’ll want to gather everything before you start, so you can focus on the magic of cooking without scrambling around the kitchen. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s not pretty when you realize you’re missing a key ingredient halfway through.
So, let’s get to it and make sure you’re well-prepared for this culinary adventure.
Ingredients for Pressure Cooker Pork Loin:
- 4 lbs pork loin (with or without bone)
- 32 ounces chicken broth (2/3 of the box for cooking, and the rest for gravy)
- 1/4 cup oil (for browning)
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
- 1 onion, peeled and quartered
- 3 – 4 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons cold water (for thickening the gravy)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (to make that gravy nice and smooth)
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients a bit more. The pork loin is the star of the show, so going for a good cut will make a world of difference. If you can find one with a bit of marbling, that’s even better, as it adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy during cooking.
As for the chicken broth, I always recommend low-sodium options, so you can control the saltiness in your dish. And don’t skimp on the garlic and onion; they bring a depth of flavor that transforms the pork from basic to extraordinary.
Finally, the cornstarch is your ticket to a creamy gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds. Just remember to mix it well with cold water to avoid any lumps.
How to Make Pressure Cooker Pork Loin
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of making Pressure Cooker Pork Loin. First things first, grab that 4 lbs pork loin and give it some love. Rub in about 3 to 4 tablespoons of Italian seasoning and those 2 crushed garlic cloves. Imagine you’re giving it a cozy spa treatment, because that’s what it deserves.
Once it’s all seasoned up, it’s time to get your pressure cooker sizzling. Heat up 1/4 cup of oil in your pressure cooker over medium heat. Toss in a few pieces of the quartered onion – this is like a warm-up act for the main event. You just want them to soften a bit and release that lovely aroma, so don’t leave them in for too long.
Remove those onion pieces and set them aside; they’ll make a comeback soon. Now, it’s showtime for the pork loin! Brown it on all sides and both ends. Seriously, this is where the magic happens. The more caramelized it gets, the better your dish will taste. Once it’s beautifully browned, take it out and set it on a plate.
Now, pour in about 2/3 of that 32-ounce box of chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold, trust me. Add the trivet back in and place the pork on top, fat side up, and don’t forget to toss in the onion pieces you set aside.
Close the lid and pressure cook for 1 hour. When that timer goes off (and you’ve probably spent the last hour daydreaming about how amazing dinner is going to be), let the pressure come down on its own. Patience is key here. Once it’s safe to open, take out the roast and let it rest under some foil for about 15 minutes.
While the pork is resting, let’s whip up some gravy that’ll make you the star of the dinner table. In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water. This is your secret weapon for a smooth gravy.
Remove the trivet from the pot, add the rest of the chicken broth, and bring it to a boil. Then, whisk in your cornstarch mixture. It’ll thicken up beautifully before your eyes. And there you have it – a tender, juicy pork loin with a rich gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
Pressure Cooker Pork Loin Substitutions & Variations
There are several tasty substitutions and variations you can explore to make your Pressure Cooker Pork Loin even more enjoyable.
For instance, swap out the Italian seasoning for a smoky barbecue rub for a different flavor profile. You could also replace the chicken broth with apple cider for a hint of sweetness.
If you’re looking for extra moisture, consider adding sliced apples or pears to the pot. For a spicy kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes.
Finally, experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to personalize the taste. Enjoy making it your own!
What to Serve with Pressure Cooker Pork Loin
After exploring some delicious substitutions and variations for your Pressure Cooker Pork Loin, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this flavorful dish.
I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast and brightness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with apple sauce or a tangy cranberry chutney to complement the savory flavors.
Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up that amazing gravy!
These sides elevate the dish and round out a satisfying dinner experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Pressure Cooker Pork Loin, keep in mind a few helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience.
First, don’t rush the browning step; it adds flavor. If you want a little kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
Resting the meat after cooking is vital—it allows juices to redistribute. For extra gravy, save some drippings from the pot before adding cornstarch.
If you’re short on time, you can use a pork tenderloin instead.
Finally, don’t forget to adjust your cooking time for smaller cuts. Enjoy your delicious results!