Pedestal Foods Kitchen: Gratitude Honey Garlic Pork Loin

We know you’ll love this recipe from Knoxville Catholic in Knoxville, Tennessee!

The Story

Our food service staff is an integral part of each school’s culture, right down to the little details. When it came time for the annual Faculty and Staff appreciation lunch, the Pedestal Foods staff came up with a flavorful, comforting dish so delicious that everyone wanted seconds—as well as the recipe.

Gratitude is one of our core values at Pedestal Foods, and something we make a point to practice every day. As you prepare this meal, slow your thoughts and actions to be present in the moment. Think about the things you’re grateful for in your life, from the food in your pantry to the people surrounding you.

When you serve this delicious dish, ask each person around your table to name two or things they’re grateful for. A little gratitude goes a long way… it’s contagious!

Pedestal Foods Kitchen Tips & Tricks

This dish includes a homemade rub – you can double the rub recipe and use it on other dishes later, from roasted potatoes to chicken breast. Keep in a tightly lidded jar with other herbs and spices.
Recommended sides: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, cheese grits, mac and cheese, green beans or a fresh side salad.

Recipe

Pedestal Foods Kitchen Gratitude Honey Garlic Pork Loin

Makes 8-10 servings

Ingredients

4 lb Pork Loin
3 tbls Olive Oil

FOR RUB

2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp chilli powder
2 tsp onion powder
¼ cup fresh thyme (minced)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (minced)
2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
2 tsp pepper (adjust to taste)

FOR HONEY GARLIC SAUCE

2 cup honey
2 cup light soy sauce
1 1/3 cup orange juice
¼ cup garlic (minced)
¾ cup brown sugar

FOR THICKENING

4 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup water

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Pierce the pork in several places with a fork.
Mix together the ingredients for rub. Apply it to the pork by pressing firmly and evenly on all sides.
Heat oil in the skillet on high heat. Add the pork and sear until it’s golden brown, turning on all sides after every 2 – 3 minutes.
Place pork on a sheet pan and roast for 22 – 25 minutes.
Mix Honey Garlic Sauce ingredients in a saucepan and whisk well. Bring to a boil on low heat.
Combine the cornstarch and water together to make a slurry and add it the honey garlic sauce.
Whisk until slightly thickened, then remove from heat and set aside.
Remove the pork from the oven and baste it with the honey garlic sauce, keeping the oven on broil.
Broil the pork for 3 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Remove from the oven, cover, and let it rest for 4 – 5 minutes.
Slice the pork and serve with sides of your choice.