Lai Thao (Roast Pork) Recipe

Name: Lai Thao (Roast Pork)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 2 teaspoons mustard seeds, crushed; 1/2 teaspoon ground clove; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar; 1 3-pound boneless pork loin roast, tied at 1-inch intervals; 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter); 2 1/2 tablespoons unsulfured molasses; 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Servings: persons

2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons mustard seeds, crushed
1/2 teaspoon ground clove
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
1 3-pound boneless pork loin roast, tied at 1-inch intervals
2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
2 1/2 tablespoons unsulfured molasses
1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon lemon juice

1
Combine all the spices in a bowl.
2
Place the pork in a shallow dish and prick all over with a fork.
3
Spread the spice mixture evenly over the pork.
4
Cover and marinate for two hours (it may be refigerated for up to 2 days but should be taken out at least 30 minutes before cooking).
5
Preheat the oven to 500 degrees.
6
Place the pork, fat side up, on a rack set in a baking pan.
7
Roast, uncovered, on the middle shelf of the oven for 15 minutes.
8
Reduce the heat to 350 degrees, baste the pork with the clarified butter and roast for one hour.
9
Dribble two teaspoons of molasses over the roast and continue cooking for a half hour longer until a meat thermometer inserted in the center registers 160 degrees.
10
Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest 15 minutes for the juices to settle.
11
Meanwhile, make the gravy.
12
Pour three-quarters of a cup of water into the baking pan and heat it, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen drippings.
13
Boil for two minutes, then thicken the gravy with the cornstarch solution.
14
Stir in the remaining molasses and the lemon juice.
15
To serve, remove and discard the trussing strings, cut the meat into thin slices and arrange on a heated serving platter.
16
Accompany with gravy on the side.

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 15 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 tablespoons minced garlic, 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons mustard seeds, crushed, and more.

Yes, Lai Thao (Roast Pork) falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Lai Thao (Roast Pork)

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions