Cedar Smoked Pork Loin With Pineapple Salsa

Directions

1. Immerse the untreated cedar plank in water; place a weight on it to keep it submerged. Soak for 4 to 24 hrs.
2. To make the Salsa: In a large saute/fry pan combine the pineapple, sugar, vinegar, lime juice, jalapeno, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and cook over medium-high heat till thickened, 7 to 10 min. (If there is still a lot of liquid left, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pineapple to a bowl and continue to cook the liquid over high heat for 5 min more, then pour the liquid over the pineapple.) Fold in the onions and basil. Season with salt, if you like.
3. To make The Rub: In a small bowl combine the rub ingredients.
4. Trim any excess fat from the pork loin. Spread the rub over the roast and place on the cedar plank. Allow to stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 min before grilling.
5. Grill over Direct Medium heat till the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees, about 1 hour. Carefully remove the roast and plank from the grill and loosely cover the roast with foil. Allow to rest for 3 to 5 min before carving. Serve hot with the pineapple salsa.
6. This recipe yields 6 servings.
7. Wine Recommendation: To enhance the smoky sweet-and-sour flavors jumping off the grill, try a spicy, dry, full-bodied white; a Gewurztraminer from Alsace. It won"t hurt the pineapple, either.
8. Beer Recommendation: From its fruity and nutty attack on the palate to its smoky, dry finish, Irish Red Ale is perfect for this dish.
9. Comments: Fresh herbs, cedar smoke, and a sweet and kicky relish add in loads of personality to this dream cut of pork. Be sure to use wood which's completely untreated. Many barbecue or possibly cooking-supply stores carry food-safe cedar planks.