Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin – A Southern Classic You’ll Never Forget!
If you’re looking for a dish that blends sweet, savory, and smoky Southern charm, this Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a must-try. The unique combination of Coca-Cola, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, and Dijon mustard creates a tender, juicy roast with a rich glaze that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or backyard gatherings, this recipe brings authentic Southern comfort right to your table.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 cup Coca-Cola (freshly opened for best flavor)
- ½ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2–2.5 lbs (about 1 kg) pork loin roast
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Coca-Cola, dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, oil, garlic, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2. Marinate the Pork
Place the pork loin in a large resealable plastic bag or glass dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the liquid for basting. Place the pork in a roasting pan or deep baking dish.
4. Roast the Pork
Pour half of the reserved marinade over the pork. Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy meat.
5. Baste for Extra Flavor
Every 20 minutes, spoon or brush some of the reserved marinade over the pork to keep it moist and glossy.
6. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with the pan juices.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Add chopped onions to the roasting pan for extra sweetness.
- Swap Coca-Cola for Pepsi if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts.
- For a true Southern feast, add cornbread and coleslaw to the table.
Flavor Secret: The Coca-Cola and brown sugar caramelize beautifully while roasting, creating a naturally sweet, sticky glaze that pairs perfectly with the savory soy sauce and tangy Dijon mustard.