Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a cherished recipe that combines the sweetness of Coca-Cola with the savory flavors of a tender pork loin. This Southern classic is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a taste of comfort and tradition. The unique blend of ingredients creates a succulent and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. In this blog post, we will walk you through the ingredients and detailed steps to make this delectable Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin, including tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (do not drain)
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 pound ground beef (90% lean preferred)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped (divided use)
- 1 egg
- 1 head cabbage
- Cooking spray
For the Coca-Cola Pork Loin:
- 1 (3-4 pound) pork loin
- 1 can Coca-Cola (12 ounces)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the brown sugar and red wine vinegar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
2. Prepare the Cabbage Rolls:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, half of the chopped parsley, and the egg. Mix until well combined.
- Remove the core from the head of cabbage. Carefully separate the leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
3. Prepare the Coca-Cola Pork Loin:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the Coca-Cola, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Place the pork loin in a large baking dish. Pour the Coca-Cola marinade over the pork, ensuring it is well coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
- Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour half of the prepared tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake alongside the pork loin in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
5. Serve:
- Once the pork loin is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the cooked cabbage rolls.
- Garnish the cabbage rolls with the remaining chopped parsley.
- Serve the sliced Coca-Cola Pork Loin with the cabbage rolls on the side, drizzled with any remaining marinade and tomato sauce.
Cook’s Tips
- Pork Loin: For best results, choose a pork loin that is well-marbled but not too fatty. Trim any excess fat before marinating.
- Cabbage Leaves: To make separating the cabbage leaves easier, freeze the head of cabbage overnight and then let it thaw before using.
- Marinating: If time allows, marinate the pork loin in the Coca-Cola mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
While this dish is a bit indulgent, it can still offer some nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Both the pork loin and cabbage rolls provide a good amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Cabbage is rich in vitamins K and C, as well as fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Moderate Sugar: The sugars in the Coca-Cola marinade add flavor, but it’s balanced by the protein and fiber in the meal.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the Coca-Cola marinade for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls: Replace the ground beef with a mix of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, and quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Alternative Meats: Try using chicken breasts or a beef roast instead of pork loin for a different take on this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- With Mashed Potatoes: The savory Coca-Cola Pork Loin pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed green beans or broccoli for a balanced meal.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauces.
Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a nostalgic and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Southern comfort to your table. Paired with hearty cabbage rolls in a rich tomato sauce, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, the unique blend of ingredients and the tender, juicy pork loin will leave everyone asking for seconds. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Southern classic. Happy cooking!
Feel free to adjust or expand upon this draft to better fit your needs or preferences.
