Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering dish? My Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin is not only super easy to make, but it also bursts with flavor that will make everyone ask for seconds! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s perfect for any dinner party or cozy family meal! 🍏🥩✨

Ingredients for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Let’s talk about what you’ll need to create this apple cider glazed pork tenderloin! The best part? You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already!

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb (500g) pork tenderloin – This is the star of the show! Choose a nice, lean piece for the juiciest results!
• 11 oz (330ml) sweet apple cider (hard cider) – This gives the pork that yummy, sweet flavor! I love using Rochdale Apple Cider; it’s crisp and refreshing!
• 1 bay leaf (dried or fresh) – A simple herb that adds depth to the marinade!
• 2 tbsp honey – This brings a touch of sweetness that’s just divine!
• 2 tbsp brown sugar – A little caramel flavor never hurt anyone!
• 2 garlic cloves (minced) – Because garlic makes everything better!
• 1/2 tsp salt – To taste, of course!
• Black pepper – For that perfect kick!

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil – To sear the pork for that beautiful golden crust!
• 1 1/2 tbsp butter – For making the sauce extra rich and delicious!
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy twist to the glaze!

Gather these goodies, and get ready to create a dish that will wow your family and friends! Trust me, this apple cider glazed pork tenderloin is going to be a dish they won’t forget! Are you ready to get cooking? Let’s do this! 🍏🥩

Step-by-Step Marinade Preparation

Now, let’s get to the fun part—marinating our pork tenderloin! This is where the magic happens, and the flavors start to mingle. I promise, it’s super simple! Here’s how to do it:

1. Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:

– 11 oz (330ml) sweet apple cider
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 minced garlic cloves
– 1 bay leaf (dried or fresh)
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Black pepper to taste

Give it a good stir! You want all those flavors to blend together beautifully!

1. Prepare the Pork: Grab your 1 lb (500g) pork tenderloin and give it a quick rinse. Pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better!

1. Marinate: Place the pork in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly, and then give it a good shake. I like to massage the marinated pork a bit, so every inch is covered!

1. Chill Out: Pop that bag in the fridge! I recommend marinating it overnight or at least for 4 hours. This allows the flavors to really soak into the pork. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

1. Ready for Cooking: Before you cook, take the pork out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. This way, it can come to room temperature.

And that’s it! You’ve just prepped the marinade like a pro! Can you smell the deliciousness already? Let’s get ready to cook a masterpiece! 🍏🌟

Cooking Instructions for Perfectly Glazed Pork

Alright, it’s time to cook that beautifully marinated pork tenderloin! Cooking is where all the flavors come together, and you’ll be amazed at the deliciousness waiting for you! Let’s get started:

1. Preheat the Oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is so important because it helps cook the pork evenly.

1. Sear the Pork: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully remove the pork from the marinade (but don’t throw that marinade away just yet!). Place the pork in the skillet and sear it until it’s golden brown on all sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t let it burn! No one likes charred bits in their sauce.

1. Roast in the Oven: After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until its internal temperature reaches 145°F (62°C). You can use a meat thermometer for this. Trust me, it makes a big difference!

1. Let It Rest: Once done, remove the pork from the oven and place it on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step helps the juices settle and keeps your pork tender and juicy!

1. Prepare the Sauce: While the pork rests, place the skillet back on the stove over high heat. Add 1 1/2 tbsp of butter and the reserved marinade along with 1 tbsp of Dijon mustard. Whisk it until smooth, bring it to a boil, then simmer until it thickens.

Now, you’re ready to slice up that juicy pork and drizzle it with the luscious sauce! Is your mouth watering yet? I can’t wait for you to try this! 🍽️✨

Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Pairings

Now that you’ve cooked up that delicious apple cider glazed pork tenderloin, let’s think about how to serve it! Presentation is key, and the right side dishes can make your meal even more fabulous! Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:

1. Fennel Apple Salad: This fresh salad pairs perfectly with pork! Just thinly slice some fennel and toss it with sliced apples, lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. It’s crunchy, refreshing, and oh-so-tasty!

1. Roasted Vegetables: You can’t go wrong with colorful roasted veggies. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with a bit of olive oil and seasoning complement the sweetness of the pork beautifully.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Who doesn’t love creamy mashed potatoes? They’re the perfect base for that luscious glaze. You can even add a bit of garlic for an extra kick!

1. Quinoa or Rice: If you’re looking for something light, try serving the pork over quinoa or rice. They soak up the delicious juices from the meat, creating a delightful combination!

1. Apple Sauce: Yes, it’s a classic, but apple sauce is a sweet and tangy addition that pairs wonderfully with pork! Plus, it gives a nostalgic feel to your meal.

So, what do you think? With these delicious sides, your apple cider glazed pork tenderloin will be a hit at any dinner! Let me know which one you choose! 🍏🥗✨

Tips for Choosing the Best Apple Cider

Picking the right apple cider can make all the difference in your dish! Trust me, not all ciders are created equal! Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect one for your apple cider glazed pork tenderloin:

1. Go for Sweet Cider: Look for ciders labeled as sweet or dessert ciders. These will give your marinade that delicious, fruity flavor that pairs so well with pork!

1. Check the Ingredients: Make sure the cider is made from quality ingredients. Ideally, you want something that has just apples, water, and yeast. The fewer the additives, the better!

1. Try Hard Cider: Remember, I’m talking about hard cider here, which has that fermented kick! It adds layers of flavor compared to non-alcoholic apple juice. Just make sure it’s not too dry!

1. Go Local: If possible, support local orchards or cideries. They often have unique flavors and blends that you can’t find in stores. Plus, you get to enjoy a taste of the region!

1. Experiment with Varieties: Don’t be afraid to try different types of apple cider like pear cider or spiced cider! They can add a fun twist to your marinade.

So, which cider are you thinking of trying? With the right choice, your apple cider glazed pork tenderloin is sure to shine! Cheers to delicious cooking! 🍏🥂✨