Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin: A Classic Southern Favorite

Introduction

The Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a cherished Southern dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. This recipe uses the surprising yet effective ingredient—Coca-Cola—to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a deep, caramelized sweetness. Slow-cooked or roasted, this dish is ideal for family gatherings, holidays, or weeknight dinners.

For more Southern-inspired cooking, explore Classic Southern Recipes and bring comforting flavors to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The Coca-Cola marinade makes the pork extra juicy and flavorful.
• A perfect balance of sweetness and spice enhances the natural taste of the pork.
• Works for both slow cooking and oven roasting.
• A fantastic main dish for holidays, Sunday dinners, or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Pork Loin:

• 1 (3-4 lb) pork loin
• 1 can (12 oz) Coca-Cola (not diet)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup Coca-Cola
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For more about using Coca-Cola in cooking, check out Cooking with Coca-Cola and explore more delicious ways to incorporate it into recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

• In a bowl, whisk together Coca-Cola, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
• Place the pork loin in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
• Cover and refrigerate for 4-8 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Sear the Pork Loin

• Remove the pork from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).

3. Cook the Pork Loin

Oven Roasting Method:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and pour half of the reserved marinade over it.
• Roast uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining marinade.
• Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before removing from the oven.

Slow Cooker Method:

• Place the pork loin in a slow cooker and pour the marinade over it.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender.

4. Make the Glaze

• In a saucepan, combine Coca-Cola, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
• Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until thickened.
• Brush the glaze over the pork loin 15 minutes before serving.

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