Brining results in moist, tender meat. Be sure to use a large center-cut loin, which cooks more evenly than two smaller pieces tied together. Begin this recipe one day ahead. What to drink: A medium-bodied fruity red, such as Merlot, or a fruity white, such as Australian Sémillon.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 8 servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Combine first 7 ingredients in heavy large pot. Bring to simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve salt and sugar. Remove from heat. Cool to room temperature. Transfer brine to very large bowl. Add pork (weight pork with plate to keep below surface). Cover; refrigerate over-night. Drain pork. Return pork to bowl; cover with water (weight pork with plate). Soak at room temperature 2 hours.
Step 2
Position rack in top third of oven and preheat to 350°F. Drain pork. Pat dry. Transfer to rack set in large roasting pan. Rub pork all over with oil. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, pressing to adhere. Sprinkle with pepper. Roast until thermometer inserted into center of pork registers 150°F, about 1 hour 40 minutes. Transfer pork to cutting board; tent with foil. Let stand 10 minutes.
Step 3
Cut pork into 1/4- to 1/2-inch-thick slices. Serve with compote.
