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Pork Loin in a Bag
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The cooking bag is key to tender, flavorful pork loin. Sliced onion, sage, and thyme with a layer of apple nectar give the pork an exceptional balance of sweet and savory while the bag keeps all the flavors together.
serves/makes:
ready in:
2-5 hrs
2-5 hrs
2 reviews
1 comment
ingredients
4 pounds pork loin
3/4 teaspoon rubbed sage
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 medium yellow onion, sliced
1/2 medium red onion, sliced
1 cup apple nectar
directions
Rub the pork loin with the sage and thyme. Add any of the remaining spices to the oven cooking bag.
Place the flour in the bottom of the cooking bag. Top with the sliced yellow and red onion. Place the pork loin on top of the onions. Drizzle the pork with the apple nectar.
Place the pork in the refrigerator and let marinate for 1 hour (you can also marinate it for up to 12 hours).
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Place the pork (in the cooking bag) in a large baking dish. Tie the bag shut. Cut 5-6 slits in the top of the bag to release steam.
Place the pork in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 1 1/2 hours or until cooked to 145 degrees F when tested with a meat thermometer.
Remove the pork from the oven and let rest in the bag for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve the sliced pork drizzled with the juices from the bag.
recipe tips
Make the pork loin is evenly coated with the herbs for consistent flavor.
Try different herb and spice combinations to vary the flavor.
Slice the pork loin against the grain.
Add a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the apple nectar for a tangy twist.
Add garlic cloves or rosemary sprigs to the cooking bag for additional aromatics.
Allow the pork loin to rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
If using a larger or smaller pork loin, adjust the cooking time accordingly to make sure it reaches the proper internal temperature.
common recipe questions
What is apple nectar? Is there a substitute?
Apple nectar is similar to apple juice, usually containing less actual fruit juice. You can substitute apple juice, if desired, or any lightly flavored fruit juice like white grape juice or even a fruity white wine.
What is the purpose of using an oven cooking bag for the pork loin?
Using an oven cooking bag helps to retain moisture and flavor while cooking the pork loin, resulting in a tender and juicy final product.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs in this recipe?
You can substitute fresh sage and thyme for the dried herbs; use 3x as much fresh as you would dried.
Do I have to marinate the pork loin for the full hour?
The longer you marinate the pork loin, the more flavor it will absorb, but an hour is sufficient. You can marinate it for up to 12 hours for even more flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the bag with the pork loin?
You can add other vegetables like carrots, or potatoes to the bag.
How do I know when the pork loin is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of the pork loin reaches 145 degrees F, indicating that it is cooked to a safe temperature.
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
While pork loin works best for this recipe, you can also use pork tenderloin or boneless pork chops with adjusted cooking times as needed.
How do I prevent the bag from bursting in the oven?
Make sure to tie the bag securely and cut slits in the top to release steam, preventing pressure buildup that could cause the bag to burst.
What should I do with the juices in the bag after cooking?
You can drizzle the flavorful juices from the bag over the sliced pork loin before serving.
Can I serve this pork loin with a sauce or gravy?
You can make a simple pan sauce using the juices from the bag, thickened with a cornstarch slurry.
How should I store and reheat leftover pork loin?
Store leftover pork loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
tools needed
Sharp Knife: You'll need a sharp knife to slice the onions and to portion out the pork loin.
Meat Thermometer (optional): While this tool is optional, it is highly recommended to make sure your pork loin is cooked to the perfect temperature. No one wants undercooked pork, that's just dangerous.
Cooking Bag: The star of the show! The cooking bag is essential for keeping all the flavors together and creating a tender, flavorful pork loin. Once you try the cooking bag method you'll never go back to your old ways of cooking pork loin.
what goes with it?
Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes: the creamy richness and tangy flavor of blue cheese will complement the sweet and savory flavors of the pork loin, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Apple Chutney: the bright flavors of a spicy apple chutney will enhance the apple nectar in the pork loin.
Garlic Green Beans: the crisp, garlicky green beans will provide a textural contrast to the tender pork loin.
Jalapeno Cornbread: the spicy kick of jalapeno cornbread will add a fun twist to the sweet and savory flavors of the pork loin.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: An oaked Chardonnay with buttery and citrus notes works beautifully with the savory and sweet elements of the pork.
Pinot Grigio: A light and crisp Pinot Grigio can offer a refreshing contrast to the flavors of the pork loin. Look for one that has bright acidity and hints of green apple.
Merlot: A softer Merlot with its fruit-forward profile and smoother tannins can harmonize with the sweet and savory flavors of the pork. Seek out one with plum and cherry notes.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Hard Cider: A dry or semi-sweet hard cider can mirror the apple nectar in the dish nicely. Its fruity and bubbly nature provides a refreshing counter to the richness of the pork.
White Sangria: A fruity white sangria makes a fun pairing, especially with its blend of citrus and apple flavors. Look for one infused with herbs like mint or basil to complement the sage and thyme in your pork.
Bourbon: A smooth bourbon offers notes of vanilla and caramel that can add a nice depth to the meal. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks to savor those warm flavors alongside the pork.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Apple Juice: Simple apple juice can highlight the apple nectar used in the recipe. Its sweetness and fruitiness will complement the pork without clashing with the savory herbs.
Spiced Herbal Tea: A warm cup of spiced herbal tea, perhaps with hints of cinnamon and apple, can echo the flavor in the dish.
Carrot Ginger Juice: This vibrant juice offers a nice kick from the ginger, which can enhance the savory aspect of the pork while the carrot adds a touch of sweetness to match the apple nectar.
nutrition data
294 calories, 10 grams fat, 9 grams carbohydrates, 39 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in carbs.
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reviews & comments
Can't rate until I've tried it. Sounds really good. Going to use this recipe for Thanksgiving.
November 27, 2019
Very juicy...pork loins can be easily overcooked and dry but this helps keep the meat moist and flavorful
September 13, 2013
I never think to buy cooking bags unless a recipe calls for it but I think I'm going to have to use them more often because they really do work wonders. The pork was really tender and I think the bag keeps a lot of the flavor from evaporating too. Thank you for the recipe!