Apple Cider Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Apple Cider Pork Tenderloin brings juicy meat and a cider-infused glaze that could charm even the pickiest dinner guest. It marries sweet, tangy apple cider with perfectly seared pork for a flavor-packed delight. If fall flavors and dinner glory had a love child, this would be it. Plus, it’s just fancy enough to fool people into thinking you spent hours cooking. (Spoiler: you didn’t.) Your taste buds deserve this treat, and your kitchen needs this simple culinary victory. Dust off that skillet — it’s time to cider up.
Apple Cider Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Tender pork, glazed with a luscious apple cider reduction, offering sweet and savory bliss in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) for finishing the tenderloin after searing.
- Season the pork: Combine garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the tenderloin for a flavorful crust.
- Sear the pork: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the tenderloin on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the glaze: In a saucepan, combine apple cider, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Bake the pork: Transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Glaze and rest: Remove the pork from the oven and brush with the apple cider glaze. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Slice the tenderloin and drizzle with additional glaze. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a finishing touch.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 340
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 42g
- Vitamin B6: 30%
- Iron: 15%
- Magnesium: 12%
- Potassium: 25%
- Zinc: 20%
Additional Notes/Tips:
- Cider hack: Opt for fresh-pressed cider for a robust apple flavor; avoid the overly sugary store versions.
- Glaze boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, autumnal twist.
- Temperature matters: Pork is perfect when it hits exactly 145°F — no guessing, just thermometer magic.
- Pairing idea: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts and wild rice for a hearty, balanced meal.
