A Visually Impressive Dish
Braided pork loin is a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for any occasion. It combines the tender and juicy meat of pork loin with your favorite rubs and sauces in a “Wow” presentation. One of the best ways to prepare this dish is on the smoker or pellet-grill, which provides a smoky and flavorful finish that will have your guests begging for more.
Preparing the Pork Loin
The first step in preparing a braided pork loin is to select a high-quality cut of meat. Look for a pork loin that is about three to four pounds in size and is well marbled with fat. This will ensure that the meat is juicy and tender when it is cooked.
You will need to trim any excess fat from the pork loin. This will help the meat cook evenly and prevent it from becoming greasy. Use a sharp knife to remove any large pieces of fat but be careful not to trim away too much of the meat. Season the meat with kosher salt, preferably the night before.
Next, starting about 2 inches from the end, use a sharp knife to make two cuts along the length of the pork loin. This will give you three strips connected at one end. Apply your choice of seasonings or rubs.
Braiding the Pork Loin
It is time to braid the pork loin. This step can be a bit tricky at first, but with a little patience and practice, you will get the hang of it.
Begin by holding one end of the pork loin and gently twisting it to the right. Then, take the next section of meat and twist it to the left, weaving it over the first twist. Continue this pattern, alternating between twisting to the right and left, until the entire pork loin is braided.
Once the pork loin is braided, you can use kitchen twine to tie it together at each end and in the middle. This will help keep the shape in place and ensure that the pork loin cooks evenly.
Cooking on the Traeger Grill
Now that the pork loin is prepared, it is time to cook it on the Traeger grill. The Traeger grill is a pellet grill that uses wood pellets to provide a smoky and flavorful finish to your meat.
Begin by preheating the Traeger grill to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the grill is heated, place the pork loin directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Cook the pork loin for approximately 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
During the cooking process, you may want to periodically check the pork loin and baste it. This will help keep the meat moist and flavorful. If you’re going to apply BBQ sauce, do that about 15 minutes before you take it off the grill.
Once the pork loin is cooked, remove it from the Traeger grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensure that it is tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Braided pork loin is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It is delicious on its own or served with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Another popular way to serve braided pork loin is to slice it into medallions and serve it on a platter with toothpicks for a fun and easy appetizer. You can also top the pork loin with a variety of sauces or glazes, such as a honey mustard glaze or a balsamic reduction.
For a complete meal, consider serving the braided pork loin with a variety of side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavors. Roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash, sautéed green beans or Brussels sprouts, and a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette are all great options.
Finishing Touch
Braided pork loin on the Traeger grill is a delicious and impressive dish that is sure to impress your guests. By following these simple steps, you can create a flavorful and juicy pork loin that is perfect for any occasion.
Whether you are hosting a family gathering or a dinner party with friends, braided pork loin is a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to be a hit. So fire up your Traeger grill and get ready to create a masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
One Response
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