Big Daddy Pork Loin

 

Sauce:
2 1/2 cups Big Daddy port
1 1/4 cups chicken broth
8 dried black Mission figs, coarsely chopped (Optional)
2 sprigs fresh rosemary (Optional)
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon honey
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Pork:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves (Optional)
1 tablespoon salt, plus additional for seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 (4 to 4 1/2-pound) boneless pork loin

For the sauce: In a heavy medium saucepan, combine the first 6 ingredients. Boil over medium-high heat until reduced by half, about 30 minutes. Discard the herb sprigs and cinnamon sticks. Transfer the Big Daddy Port mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Blend in the butter. Season the sauce, to taste, with salt and pepper. (The sauce can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Re-warm over medium heat before using.)

For the pork: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Stir the oil, rosemary, 1 tablespoon salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons pepper in a small bowl to blend. Place the pork loin in a heavy roasting pan. Spread the oil mixture over the pork to coat completely. Roast until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the pork says 145 degrees F, turning the pork every 15 minutes to ensure even browning, about 45 minutes total.

Transfer the pork to a cutting board and tent with foil to keep warm. Let the pork rest 15 minutes. Meanwhile, stir the chicken broth into the roasting pan. Place the pan over medium heat, and scrape the bottom of the pan to remove any browned bits. Bring the pan juices to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Cut the pork into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Arrange the pork slices on plates. Spoon the jus over. Drizzle the warm Big Daddy Sauce around and serve immediately.

Other Great Recipes