This Christmas Stuffed Pork Roast is a festive and flavorful dish that will impress your guests and become a highlight of your holiday celebrations. Stuffed with a delicious mixture of fruits, nuts, and spices, this roast is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds boneless pork loin roast
• 1 cup diced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat or seasoned)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or apple juice for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Mix Stuffing Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with diced apples, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, chopped pecans, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the chicken broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Roast

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Butterfly the Roast: Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the pork loin by slicing it horizontally, but not all the way through, so it opens like a book.
3. Stuff the Roast: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the inside of the pork roast. Roll the roast tightly and secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks.

Step 3: Roast the Pork

1. Season the Roast: Rub the outside of the stuffed pork roast with salt and pepper. Place it in a roasting pan.
2. Roast: Cook in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste occasionally with pan juices for added flavor.

Step 4: Serve

1. Rest the Roast: Once cooked, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut into thick slices and serve warm, drizzled with any remaining pan juices.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	400
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	600mg
Total Carbohydrates	30g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	8g
Protein	30g

Tips for Success

To ensure your Christmas Stuffed Pork Roast turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Quality Meat: Choose a high-quality pork loin for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Adjust Stuffing: Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients, such as different fruits, nuts, or herbs.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast.

Variations

• Add More Flavor: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the stuffing for a warm, festive flavor.
• Vegetable Stuffing: Substitute some of the fruit and nuts with sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a different twist.
• Glaze Option: Brush the roast with a honey or maple glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added sweetness.

Conclusion

This Christmas Stuffed Pork Roast is not only a delicious and hearty main dish but also a beautiful presentation that will elevate your holiday meal. With its savory stuffing and tender meat, it’s sure to become a beloved tradition at your festive gatherings.

FAQs

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the roast.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.