Sweet Balsamic Glazed Pork Loin {Slow Cooker + Instant Pot}
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
8 hrs 15 mins
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Total Time
8 hrs 30 mins
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Servings
8 Servings
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Sweet Balsamic Glazed Pork Loin {Slow Cooker + Instant Pot}
Description
This recipe uses a pork loin roast seasoned thoroughly with ground sage, kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. The seasoning rub enhances the natural flavor of the pork during the long, slow cooking process. Cooking methods include slow cooking on low for 6-8 hours or pressure cooking in an Instant Pot for 60 minutes with broth or water to keep the meat moist.
While the pork cooks, a glaze is prepared by boiling together brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, water, and cornstarch until it thickens to a syrupy consistency. This glaze is applied near the end of cooking or after to add a flavorful sweet-tart finish that complements the savory pork.
The pork loin is well-suited for a main course accompanied by simple sides such as vegetables or grains. The glaze adds a glossy, sticky texture that enhances each bite with balanced sweetness and acidity.
If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, and adjusting the amount of sage to personal preference is fine. Pork tenderloin can be used in place of the pork loin or sirloin roast for a slightly different tender texture.
Ingredients
Pork:
- 2 to 3 to 3 pounds pork loin trimmed of large fat pockets, boneless or pork sirloin roast
- 1 teaspoon ground sage or poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper coarse
- 1 clove garlic finely minced or crushed
- ½ cup water or chicken broth
Glaze:
- ½ cup brown sugar light or dark
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the sage, salt, pepper and garlic. Rub the spices all over the roast.
- For the slow cooker: place the pork roast in the slow cooker and add the 1/2 cup water. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- For the Instant Pot/Pressure cooker: place the pork roast in the insert of the Instant Pot or other pressure cooker. Increase the water or broth to 1 cup and add to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes (hit manual --> dial up or down to 60 minutes --> Instant Pot will start automatically and count down the time). Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before quickly releasing the rest of the pressure.
- Near the end of cooking time (for either slow cooker or pressure cooker), whisk together all the ingredients for the glaze in a small saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens, 2-3 minutes. Season to taste with a pinch of salt and pepper, if needed/desired. Keep warm until ready to use.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker or Instant Pot. Shred the meat into pieces and place on a platter or plate. Drizzle the glaze over the pork and serve immediately.
Notes
- If fresh garlic is unavailable, substitute with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
- Adjust ground sage amount according to taste; some prefer using only 1/2 teaspoon.
- Pork tenderloin can be used instead of loin or sirloin roast for a tender result.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 Serving | |
| Calories | 292kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 16g | 5% |
| Protein | 39g | 78% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 107mg | 36% |
| Sodium | 540mg | 23% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 15g | 30% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.