Ah, the holidays! A time for family gatherings, cozy sweaters, and, of course, magnificent feasts. One dish that never fails to impress at my holiday table is the stunning Holiday Crown Pork Roast. I remember the first time I made it—there I was, a little nervous, thinking, “Will this huge hunk of meat turn out okay?” But as the aroma of rosemary, thyme, and apple cider filled my kitchen, all my worries melted away. The vibrant colors and tantalizing smells drew my family in as they marveled at the dinner centerpiece.
This pork roast is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s succulent and juicy, thanks to the magical blend of herbs and the sweetness of apples caramelizing in the oven. It’s become a beloved tradition in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and create this showstopper together!
What’s in Holiday Crown Pork Roast?
- Crown pork roast: This is the star of the show! Look for a roast weighing about 4-5 lbs with 8-12 ribs; it’s wonderfully tender and perfect for special occasions.
- Olive oil: A little drizzle helps the seasoning adhere and crisps up the outside of the roast beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors. You can use kosher salt for a coarser texture.
- Fresh rosemary and thyme: These herbs add a fragrant aroma and earthy flavors that beautifully complement the pork.
- Garlic: Because everything’s better with garlic, right? Freshly minced brings a robust flavor to the dish.
- Apple cider: Adds sweetness and tang, creating a luscious sauce as it reduces in the oven. I love using fresh-pressed cider from local orchards.
- Chicken broth: This is the perfect base for that delicious gravy you’ll want to drizzle over everything!
- Small apples: I suggest Hudson Golden Gems; their sweetness and texture hold up nicely as they roast. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite variety!
- Fresh sage leaves: Gorgeous as a garnish, these herbs bring an additional layer of flavor and make for a beautiful presentation.
Is Holiday Crown Pork Roast Good for You?
Let’s be honest, it’s a celebratory dish, so moderation is key! The crown pork roast is naturally packed with protein, making it filling and satisfying. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme are not only delicious but come with their own health benefits—like being antioxidants and potentially promoting digestion. The apples add a delightful sweetness while providing fiber and vitamins. Just keep in mind that the dish can be a little rich, especially if you do plan on making gravy from the pan juices. So, maybe save it for those festive occasions!
Ingredients List
- 1 crown pork roast (about 4-5 lbs, with 8-12 ribs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 12 small apples (such as Hudson Golden Gem), sliced and cored
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
How to Make Holiday Crown Pork Roast?
- First off, preheat that lovely oven to 375°F (190°C). We want it nice and warm for our roast.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, and garlic to create a delicious herb paste.
- Rub this aromatic mixture all over the crown pork roast, making sure to get it into all those crevices between the bones. Get your hands in there—it’s part of the fun!
- Now, place the seasoned roast in a roasting pan, bone side down, and scatter those sliced apples around it like a sweet confetti.
- Pour the apple cider and chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. The blend of flavors here is just divine!
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C). If you have a meat thermometer, it’s the best tool to ensure you nail that temperature.
- Don’t forget to baste the roast with the pan juices once during cooking for added moisture and flavor.
- Once cooked, remove your masterpiece from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes—this will allow the juices to redistribute.
- Finally, slice, serve, and garnish with fresh sage leaves and any extra roasted apples. Enjoy the compliments!
Let’s Make It Perfect!
- Worried about the roast drying out? You can cover it with aluminum foil during the first part of roasting.
- Feel free to add roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts around the roast for a complete meal.
- Don’t forget to save those pan juices because they make the most incredible gravy! Just whisk in a little flour or cornstarch to thicken it up.
- If you’re serving wine, a nice red pairs beautifully with this dish—go for a Pinot Noir or Merlot for a festive touch!
So there you have it, folks! The Holiday Crown Pork Roast is not just a recipe, it’s a delightful experience that brings loved ones together. I encourage you to try it out for your next gathering, whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy Sunday dinner. And remember, every roast has a story—be sure to share yours! Happy cooking!
