As turkey has been banned in our house this Christmas I'm going to have a go at this recipe.
HONEY & HERB ROAST LOIN OF PORK
4 - 6 garlic cloves crushed and chopped
2 - 3 sprigs of fresh thyme chopped
1 sprig fresh sage chopped
2 sprigs rosemary chopped
olive oil
2.5kg pork loin, boned weight
5 - 6 tbsp runny honey
500ml medium dry cider
Combined the garlic and herbs. Working on the flesh side, lightly oil the meat and spread the herb/garlic mixture over the meat using your hands.
Roll the meat up loosely and leave it to marinate in the fridge for 12 - 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 210C fan/gas mark 8. Curl the loin into a fat sausage shape and tie it up with string. Smooth the rind with oil then rub in fine sea salt if you like crackling. Put the joint on a rack in a roasting tin and cook for 30 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 160C/gas mark 4 and continue to cook for another 40 minutes.
Remove the pork and brush with the honey. Cook the joint for another 45 minutes pouring the cider into the pan halfway through.
Leave the pork to rest for 15 - 30 minutes.
Use the juices to make gravy.