Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin

Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin is a delectable dish that marries juicy pork with the bright flavors of apples and cranberries, creating an unforgettable meal. Picture yourself at the dinner table, enjoying the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. This dish not only shines at cozy family gatherings but also dazzles friends during festive occasions. The blend of sweet and tart perfectly complements the tenderness of the pork, making every bite a flavorful journey.

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As you prepare this warm and inviting recipe, you’ll notice how simple yet impressive it is. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a gourmet chef, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. Best of all, the vibrant colors and enticing scent promise to capture the attention of your guests. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create this stunning Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin together!

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this recipe lies in its balanced flavors. The sweetness from Honeycrisp apples beautifully contrasts with the tartness of fresh cranberries, resulting in a savory-sweet sauce that truly elevates the richness of the pork. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!

And here’s a little secret: using light brown sugar enhances the depth of flavor. It caramelizes just right during roasting, adding an extra layer of deliciousness. You’ll end up with a tender, golden crust that everyone will love. Plus, resting the pork after cooking is a crucial technique. This step locks in the juiciness, ensuring that each bite is mouthwateringly succulent.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin

Imagine serving a dish that’s not only tasty but also visually stunning! This Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin fits the bill perfectly. It’s cozy enough for a quiet weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. You’ll be the star of your gathering without all the stress.

The vibrant colors of red cranberries and golden apples create a feast for the senses. As the tenderloin roasts, your kitchen will fill with an incredible aroma. It’s not just about filling stomachs; this dish appeals to the heart and mind as well. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, allowing you to enjoy quality time with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin
• ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small Honeycrisp apple, peeled and diced
• ½ cup (50 g) fresh cranberries
• ½ cup (120 g) apple cider
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Preparation Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Let’s kick off this culinary adventure by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting it ready ahead of time sets the stage for roasting the tenderloin to perfection.

Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

In a bowl, mix the light brown sugar, olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. This flavorful combination will create a delicious crust on the pork. Take your time to rub this mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin, ensuring that every inch is coated.

Roast the Pork

Carefully place the seasoned pork tenderloin in a large, oven-safe skillet. It’s now time for the oven magic! Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or roughly 20 minutes per pound. You’ll want to aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.

Rest the Pork

After the pork cooks to that perfect temperature, remove it from the oven. Transfer it to a platter and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is essential for allowing the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.

Cook the Cranberry Apple Topping

While the pork rests, let’s turn our attention to the cranberry apple topping. In the same skillet you used for the pork, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Then, add the diced Honeycrisp apple, fresh cranberries, apple cider, light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give it a good stir and let those flavors mingle.

Simmer the Sauce

Continue cooking this delightful mixture for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to wait until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. At this stage, the aroma will be simply irresistible!

Combine Pork and Sauce

Once the pork has rested, return it to the skillet. Carefully spoon the cranberry apple sauce over the top. Adding some fresh parsley as a garnish will not only enhance the flavors but also add a beautiful touch of color.

Serve and Enjoy

Now it’s time to slice the tenderloin and serve it alongside that aromatic cranberry apple sauce. Enjoy the delightful flavors and presentation as you take in the smiles from your guests!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving your tenderloin with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. They’ll complement the pork perfectly, creating a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will appreciate. A fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can also make for a refreshing side.

Tips for Success

To keep that juicy richness intact, avoid overcooking the pork. Remember, letting the sauce simmer adequately will strengthen its flavor and create a more delicious glaze.

Variations

Feeling creative? You can switch things up by substituting the Honeycrisp apple with Granny Smith or Fuji apples for a different flavor twist. For added texture, throw in some nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the cranberry sauce.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is often hard to believe with a dish this delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat in the oven to preserve the pork’s lovely texture.

Pairing Ideas

Wine Pairing

For the perfect drink to accompany your meal, a light Pinot Noir or a crisp Riesling pairs beautifully with the flavors of the pork and sauce.

Side Dishes

Consider adding garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or wild rice pilaf to round out the meal. They’ll enhance the overall experience!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries; just toss them directly into the sauce without thawing.

2. How can I tell when the pork is cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer—it should read 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the pork tenderloin.

3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! The dish holds well in the refrigerator, making it easy to enjoy multiple meals throughout the week.

4. Can I make this dish in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the cranberry sauce in advance and simply reheat it before serving.

5. What if I can’t find Honeycrisp apples?
Feel free to substitute with any variety of apples you enjoy, such as Fuji or Gala.

This Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin recipe not only brings warmth and richness to your dining table but also invites you to savor each bite. With its combination of savory pork and bright, tangy sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Gather your ingredients, follow the straightforward steps, and get ready for a delightful culinary experience that will impress everyone at your table!

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