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Nothing says comfort quite like a beautifully smoked pork loin. This lean yet tender cut takes on a remarkable depth of flavor when kissed by aromatic wood smoke. Below, you’ll find a vibrant twist bursting with subtle sweetness from maple syrup and a touch of tang from Dijon mustard. Get ready to treat your taste buds to something special!
Ingredients
- 1 (3–4 lb) pork loin
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Favorite wood chips (e.g., applewood or hickory), for smoking
Instructions
To begin, pat the pork loin dry and trim off any excess silver skin or visible fat. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil. Stir in the chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Set up your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, heating it to about 225°F. Choose a mild wood like apple wood or a stronger one like hickory if you crave a bolder taste. Once the smoker is ready, brush the pork loin generously with your maple-Dijon mixture, reserving a little for basting later.
Place the pork loin in the smoker, close the lid, and let the aromatic smoke work its magic. Plan for approximately 2–3 hours, depending on the size of your pork loin and desired doneness. About halfway through, open the smoker and baste with the remaining glaze. Continue smoking until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F.
Carefully remove the pork loin from the smoker and let it rest, tented loosely with foil, for at least 10 minutes. This important step allows the flavorful juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
This Maple-Dijon Smoked Pork Loin is a delight for anyone who appreciates a touch of sweetness paired with savory notes. The lean nature of pork loin makes it a good protein choice if you’re minding saturated fats, and you can easily swap the maple syrup for honey or agave if you prefer a different sweetness. For extra zest, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or experimenting with different wood chip varieties.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe delivers a satisfying, smoky meal that’s sure to please.
