Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin
Introduction
The Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a nostalgic Southern classic that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in the most mouthwatering way. Using Coca-Cola in cooking is an old Southern trick — the soda’s sweetness and slight acidity tenderize the meat and create a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s irresistible. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or when you just want to treat yourself to true Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1 (3-4 lb) boneless pork loin roast
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup Coca-Cola (regular, not diet!)
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish
Instructions
** Marinate the Pork**
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Coca-Cola, dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the pork loin in a large resealable plastic bag or a deep dish.
- Pour the marinade over the pork, seal the bag (or cover the dish), and refrigerate for at least 4 hours — overnight is best for maximum flavor.
** Prepare for Roasting**
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the pork loin from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan.
- Pour about half of the marinade over the pork. Reserve the other half for basting.
** Roast the Pork**
- Cover the roasting pan with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved marinade.
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to let the glaze thicken and caramelize.
- The pork is done when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
** Serve and Enjoy**
- Slice the pork loin into medallions.
- Drizzle with pan juices.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful finish.
Cooking Methods
- Alternative: Slow Cooker**
- Place the marinated pork and marinade in a slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until tender.
- Finish under a broiler for 5-10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
** Alternative: Grill**
- Grill over indirect heat, basting frequently, until cooked through and nicely charred.
History
The tradition of cooking meats with Coca-Cola comes from the American South, where the iconic soda was invented in 1886. Southerners found that Coke’s blend of sweetness and acidity acts as a marinade and glaze all in one — caramelizing beautifully while infusing meat with unique flavor. This recipe is a modern twist on that old tradition, highlighting the South’s creativity and love for unexpected flavor combinations.
Benefits
- Tender & Juicy: Coca-Cola breaks down the meat fibers for tenderness.
- Flavor Explosion: Sweet, savory, and tangy all at once.
- Easy to Make: Simple pantry ingredients do the magic.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect centerpiece for gatherings and potlucks.
Formation
The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and Coke forms a glossy glaze. Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add tangy depth and umami. The slow roasting and basting let the pork soak up layers of flavor while staying moist.
Nutrition (approximate per serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is more than just a meal — it’s a delicious nod to Southern ingenuity and comfort food traditions. Whether served with mashed potatoes, cornbread, or roasted veggies, it’s bound to win hearts.
For the Lovers
If you adore melt-in-your-mouth pork with a sweet Southern twist, this recipe is for you. Don’t lose it — pass it on and share the taste of the Old South with family and friends!