Savory Pork Tenderloin

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a simple yet tantalizing recipe for Savory Pork Tenderloin! This dish is all about bringing out the natural flavors of pork with a delightful blend of herbs and a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients for Savory Pork Tenderloin

The star of the show is the pork tenderloin. It's lean, tender, and cooks quickly. Olive oil helps carry the flavors and assists in searing. The blend of salt and black pepper enhances the natural taste of the meat. Garlic powder adds a savory depth, while dried thyme and dried rosemary bring aromatic earthiness. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness. The Dijon mustard and honey create a sweet and tangy glaze, complemented by the slight tang of apple cider vinegar.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer to get the perfect internal temperature.
  • Let the pork rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
  • If you’re out of Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard can work too.

Serving Suggestions

This savory pork tenderloin pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, but cooking times will vary. Pork loin or chops might be alternative options.
What if I don't have an oven-safe skillet?
You can sear the pork in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish for roasting.

Savory Pork Tenderloin Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is critical to ensure the pork cooks evenly. As you wait for the oven, pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This step helps in achieving that desirable crust when you sear it.

Next, mix together your olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika in a small bowl. This will be your spice rub. Massage it all over the pork, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. The rub not only adds flavor but also helps form a crust during searing.

Now, heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the pork in the skillet and sear it on all sides. This should take about 3 minutes per side. You’re not cooking it through here, just giving it a nice brown exterior.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Once the pork is seared, brush this mixture generously over it. This glaze will add a beautiful sheen and flavor.

Transfer the skillet into your preheated oven. Let the pork roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It’s important not to overcook it to keep it juicy and tender.

Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes, loosely covered with aluminum foil. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the pork more succulent when sliced.

Finally, slice the pork into medallions and get ready to enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy, perfect for weeknights or special dinners.
  • Uses common pantry staples to create a robust flavor profile.
  • Minimal prep time with maximum flavor impact.

Ingredients

1 whole pork tenderloin (about 1.5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and place it on a cutting board.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika to create a spice rub.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the tenderloin, searing it on all sides until browned (about 3 minutes per side).
6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
7. Brush the mustard mixture over the seared pork tenderloin.
8. Transfer the skillet with the pork into the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Remove the tenderloin from the oven, cover loosely with aluminum foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
10. Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve with your choice of sides.

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