This Pork Crown Roast is a showstopper! Wrapped in a tasty whiskey glaze, it’s juicy and flavorful, perfect for festive gatherings or special dinner nights at home.
Just imagine your guests’ faces when you bring this beauty to the table! I like to pair it with roasted veggies—they complement the rich glaze nicely. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Crown Roast: This standout cut is impressive and perfect for special occasions. If you’re on a budget, a regular pork loin can work too. Just be mindful of cooking times since they might differ.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor. However, you can also use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer a neutral taste or have dietary restrictions.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme really enhance flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs work too! Just reduce the quantity to a third, as dried herbs are more potent.
Whiskey: If you’re not a whiskey fan, try bourbon or even apple cider as a non-alcoholic option for the glaze. The flavors might change a bit, but they will still taste great!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, whole grain mustard or even honey mustard can be used. Just keep in mind the sweetness might change the glaze a bit.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare a Pork Crown Roast?
Preparing a pork crown roast might seem tricky, but with careful attention, it can be a highlight of your meal. Start by ensuring your roast is dry, as moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Rub the roast evenly with olive oil and season generously. Don’t skip the salt; it enhances flavors!
- Stand the roast upright on a rack in a pan. This allows hot air to circulate for even cooking.
- Monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F for juicy, tender pork. Remember, resting the meat is essential to keep it moist.
How to Make Pork Crown Roast with Whiskey Glaze?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Roast:
- 1 (8-10 rib) pork crown roast, frenched
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
For the Whiskey Glaze:
- 1/2 cup whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 30 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. Don’t forget to let the roast rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. In total, you’re looking at around 2 to 2.5 hours for this beautiful Pork Crown Roast with Whiskey Glaze to be ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your roast cooks evenly and thoroughly once it’s ready to go in.
2. Prepare the Pork Crown Roast:
Take your pork crown roast out of its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better. Rub the entire roast with olive oil to create a nice base, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, and thyme. Make sure to spread the seasoning evenly all over the roast.
3. Position the Roast for Cooking:
Place the seasoned roast on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. Set it up so the rib bones are pointing upwards. This not only looks great but helps the roast to cook evenly.
4. Create the Whiskey Glaze:
In a small saucepan, mix together the whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Remember to set aside a portion of this glaze for serving later.
5. Glaze the Roast:
Brush half of the whiskey glaze over the pork roast. You’ll use the rest of the glaze later on, so make sure to reserve it!
6. Roast It Up:
Put the roast in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Use a meat thermometer and check that the thickest part of the meat (not touching the bone) reaches 145°F (63°C). Halfway through the cooking, baste the roast with the remaining glaze to layer on that delicious flavor.
7. Let It Rest:
Once the pork crown roast is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your pork moist and flavorful.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, slice the roast between the bones to make individual chops. Drizzle with the reserved whiskey glaze and enjoy your impressive and tasty Pork Crown Roast with Whiskey Glaze!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes! While a crown roast is stunning for special occasions, you can use a pork loin or pork shoulder instead. Just adjust the cooking time according to the weight; a pork loin typically cooks for about 25 minutes per pound, while a shoulder may take longer. Make sure to still use a meat thermometer to check for doneness!
What if I Don’t Have Whiskey for the Glaze?
No problem! You can substitute whiskey with apple juice, ginger ale, or even a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative for a similar flavor profile. If using apple juice, you might want to add a splash of vinegar to balance out the sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or warm individual slices in the microwave for convenience. Drizzle a bit of extra glaze on top before serving to keep it moist!
Can I Make the Whiskey Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the whiskey glaze up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use, just reheat it gently on the stove, and it will be ready to brush on the roast or drizzle over the sliced pork!
