Cranberry Dijon Beef Loin Roast with Apple Cider Glaze: A Holiday Showstopper
Introduction
A beautifully cooked Cranberry Dijon Beef Loin Roast with a rich, tangy Apple Cider Glaze is a centerpiece-worthy dish for any special occasion. Packed with holiday flavors that blend sweet, savory, and tangy notes, this recipe is a must-try for family dinners or festive celebrations. Let’s dive into the recipe, explore its nutritional profile, and discuss its health benefits, especially for older adults.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 6-8
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Beef Loin Roast:
- Beef Loin Roast (3-4 lbs): A tender cut of beef, rich in protein and iron.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Adds moisture and enhances browning.
- Garlic Powder (2 tsp): Provides a savory depth.
- Dried Thyme (2 tsp): Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor.
- Salt (1 tsp) & Black Pepper (½ tsp): For seasoning.
For the Cranberry Dijon Glaze:
- Cranberry Sauce (1 cup): Sweet and tart, with antioxidants from cranberries.
- Dijon Mustard (2 tbsp): Brings a tangy, sharp flavor.
- Honey (2 tbsp): Natural sweetness that balances the tartness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a slight acidity to round out the flavors.
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- Apple Cider (1 cup): A fruity, sweet base with hints of spice.
- Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Enhances the natural sweetness of the cider.
- Unsalted Butter (1 tbsp): Adds a smooth, glossy finish to the glaze.
- Cornstarch Slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water): Thickens the glaze for a luxurious texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the beef loin on a roasting rack in a baking dish or roasting pan.
Step 2: Season the Beef Loin
- Rub the beef loin with olive oil.
- Season with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
Step 3: Make the Cranberry Dijon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
Step 4: Roast the Beef
- Brush the beef loin generously with half of the cranberry Dijon glaze.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Brush the beef with the remaining glaze halfway through cooking.
Step 5: Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze
- While the beef is roasting, combine apple cider and brown sugar in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the butter and cornstarch slurry, cooking until the glaze thickens.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to retain juices.
- Slice the beef loin and drizzle the apple cider glaze over the slices before serving.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~26g
- Fats: ~15g
- Saturated Fats: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Sugars: ~12g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sodium: ~360mg
Is It Healthy?
Yes, this dish is nutritious and can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
- High in Protein: Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle repair and maintenance.
- Rich in Iron and Zinc: Beef provides essential minerals like iron (important for red blood cell production) and zinc (crucial for immune health).
- Moderate in Fats: Olive oil and butter contribute healthy fats but should be consumed mindfully.
- Antioxidants from Cranberries: The cranberry glaze is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress.
- Reduced Sugar Option: Substitute brown sugar and honey with low-glycemic sweeteners like stevia for a healthier twist.
Is It Suitable for People Over 60?
Yes, with minor modifications.
- Lean Protein for Muscle Health: The beef loin is a lean cut, ideal for older adults needing high-quality protein for muscle maintenance.
- Heart-Friendly Fats: Using olive oil instead of butter for the glaze can reduce saturated fat intake.
- Reduced Sodium: Lower the salt in the recipe to align with heart-healthy guidelines.
- Joint Health: The antioxidants in cranberries and apple cider may reduce inflammation, beneficial for joint health.
- Digestibility: Ensure the beef is tender by resting it after cooking, making it easier to chew and digest.
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the beef.
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef loin with the glaze overnight.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Dijon Beef Loin Roast with Apple Cider Glaze is a delicious and visually stunning main dish that’s perfect for holidays and special occasions. With its sweet and tangy flavors and a tender, juicy roast, it’s sure to impress guests while providing a nutritious meal. Suitable for all ages, it’s especially beneficial for older adults when prepared with slight modifications.
Give this recipe a try and share your thoughts! What’s your favorite holiday main dish?
