Introduction

Brown Sugar Garlic Butter Roast Pork is a delightful dish that marries the sweetness of brown sugar with the savory notes of garlic and butter. This recipe offers an easy yet impressive way to prepare pork, resulting in a tender and flavorful roast that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. The combination of caramelization from the sugar and the aromatic quality of garlic creates a beautifully glazed exterior that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pork shoulder – 2 to 3 kg
Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
Garlic – 6 cloves, minced
Butter – 100 grams, melted
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
Fresh thyme – optional, for garnish

Prep Time

The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This involves gathering your ingredients, seasoning the pork, and preparing the brown sugar garlic mixture that will be brushed over the meat.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the Brown Sugar Garlic Butter Roast Pork is about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the roast and your oven settings. In total, you should expect the entire process, including prep and cooking, to take around 4 hours. This recipe yields a generous portion, typically serving 6 to 8 people, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or leftovers.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pork

Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (450°F). While the oven is heating, prepare the pork by scoring the skin in a criss-cross pattern without cutting into the meat. This will help the fat render and the skin to crisp up.

Season the Pork

Rub the pork all over with the brown sugar, salt, and pepper mixture, ensuring even coverage. Focus on the scored areas to allow the seasoning to penetrate better.

Prepare Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, thyme leaves, and rosemary. This garlic butter will add flavor to the pork during cooking.

Apply Garlic Butter

Spread the garlic butter mixture over the pork, again ensuring even coverage, and letting it get into the scored skin and grooves.

Roast the Pork

Place the pork in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until the skin starts to crisp. After the initial roasting period, lower the temperature to 160°C (320°F) and continue to roast for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours.

Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. It should read 70°C (160°F). If it hasn’t reached the desired temperature, continue to roast, checking every 15 minutes.

Rest the Pork

Once cooked through, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Slice and Serve

After resting, slice the pork and serve with your choice of sides and any pan juices drizzled on top for added flavor.

Notes

Skin Scoring

Scoring the skin properly is crucial for achieving a crunchy crackling texture. Make sure not to cut into the meat itself.

Butter Temperature

Ensure that your butter is softened but not melted; this will help it stick better to the pork.

Herb Substitution

Feel free to substitute or add herbs according to your preference. Other herbs such as sage or oregano can complement the flavors well.

Serving Suggestions

This roast pork pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Leftovers

Leftover pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or used cold in sandwiches or salads.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinate the pork in a mixture of brown sugar, garlic, and butter to infuse it with flavor and ensure tenderness.

Roasting

Roast the pork at a high temperature initially to create a caramelized crust, then lower the temperature for even cooking throughout.

Basting

Baste the pork with the cooking juices periodically to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.

Resting

Allow the pork to rest after cooking to let the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful piece of meat.

Carving

Carve the pork against the grain to enhance tenderness and ensure each slice is easy to chew.

FAQ

Can I use other types of sugar instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can use white sugar, but brown sugar adds a deeper flavor profile due to its molasses content.

How do I know when the pork is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C).

What can I serve with brown sugar garlic butter roast pork?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the pork a day in advance and roast it when ready to serve.

What should I do with leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be reheated or used in sandwiches and salads.

Conclusion

The Brown Sugar Garlic Butter Roast Pork is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of brown sugar and garlic with the savory taste of tender pork. This recipe not only brings out the natural juiciness of the pork but also adds a sweet and buttery glaze that is irresistible. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner, this roast is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken

A succulent roast chicken seasoned with a blend of fresh herbs creates a flavorful dish that pairs well with the garlic butter sauce.

Maple Glazed Salmon

A sweet and savory salmon dish that complements the sweetness of the pork, making for a perfect surf-and-turf pairing.

Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots

These sweet and savory glazed carrots make an excellent side dish that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic serve as the perfect base to soak up the delicious juices from the roast pork.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Reduction

These earthy Brussels sprouts provide a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the roast pork and add a nutritious element to your plate.