Baked Autumn Pork Roast

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### **Instructions:**

**1. Preheat and Prepare the Pork Roast:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you have a bone-in pork roast, make sure to tie it with kitchen twine to help maintain its shape during cooking. Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispier crust when roasting.

**2. Create the Flavor Rub:**
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, ground cinnamon, rosemary, thyme, and nutmeg. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated into a smooth glaze.

**3. Season the Pork Roast:**
Rub the prepared glaze generously all over the pork roast, making sure to coat every side. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will not only create a delicious crust but also infuse the pork with rich, autumnal flavors as it roasts.

**4. Sauté Apples and Onions:**
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the apple slices and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the apples start to soften and caramelize slightly. Remove from the heat and set aside.

**5. Roast the Pork:**
Place the seasoned pork roast on top of the sautéed onions and apples in the skillet. Pour the chicken broth (or apple cider) into the skillet around the pork roast, creating a flavorful base for the roast to cook in.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 60-75 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. Baste the pork with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep the meat moist and infuse it with even more flavor.

**6. Rest the Pork Roast:**
Once the pork roast has reached the proper temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy, tender roast.

**7. Serve:**
Slice the pork roast into thick slices, serving with the caramelized apples and onions from the skillet. Pour some of the pan juices over the top for added richness. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete fall meal.

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### **Tips for the Perfect Baked Autumn Pork Roast:**

– **Bone-in vs. Boneless:** While both types of pork roast work well for this recipe, a bone-in roast often offers more flavor and tenderness due to the marrow in the bone. If you opt for a boneless roast, it will cook faster and can be easier to slice.

– **Flavor Variations:** Feel free to add your own autumn spices, such as ground ginger or cloves, to customize the flavor profile. A dash of balsamic vinegar can also add a touch of sweetness and depth.

– **Resting Time:** After roasting, it’s crucial to let the pork rest before slicing. This helps keep the pork juicy and ensures that each bite is tender and flavorful.

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### **Why You’ll Love Baked Autumn Pork Roast:**

– **Perfect for Fall:** The blend of sweet maple syrup, tart apples, and warm spices like cinnamon and rosemary makes this pork roast the perfect dish for a cozy autumn meal.

– **Easy and Elegant:** Despite its rich flavors and impressive presentation, this recipe is simple to prepare. It’s a great choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

– **Versatile:** Baked Autumn Pork Roast can be paired with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to a fresh apple salad. You can also enjoy the leftovers in sandwiches or wraps for a quick lunch.

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### **Conclusion:**

Baked Autumn Pork Roast is the ultimate fall dish, delivering the warmth, comfort, and flavor of the season in every bite. With its tender, juicy meat, caramelized apples, and savory glaze, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe for cozy nights in or festive gatherings. Its combination of sweet and savory flavors brings the best of autumn to your table, making it a meal that’s as delicious as it is memorable.