Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin – Festive Winter Dish
Are you searching for a show-stopping dish that will impress your guests at your next winter gathering? Look no further than Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin! This festive dish combines the savory flavors of pork with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, creating a delightful balance that’s perfect for the holiday season. Did you know that cranberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants? In this blog post, we will explore how to prepare this stunning dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your winter celebrations.
Ingredients List
To create your Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- For the Cranberry Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions:
- Pork Tenderloin: You can substitute with chicken breast or turkey tenderloin for a lighter option.
- Brown Sugar: Use maple syrup or honey for a different sweetener.
- Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are unavailable, canned cranberry sauce can be used, though the texture will differ.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Season the Pork: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
- Tip: Let the pork sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
- Sear the Pork: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Tip: Use tongs to turn the pork and ensure even browning.
Step 3: Make the Cranberry Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Tip: If you prefer a smoother glaze, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture after cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Pork
- Glaze and Bake: Once the glaze is ready, pour half of it over the seared pork tenderloin. Reserve the other half for serving. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
- Rest the Pork: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist tenderloin.
- Serve: Slice the pork into medallions and drizzle with the remaining cranberry glaze before serving. Enjoy the festive flavors!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 25g |
Nutritional Insights:
- This dish is high in protein, making it a satisfying main course.
- The cranberries add a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin healthier, consider these modifications:
- Reduce Sugar: Cut the brown sugar in the glaze by half or use a sugar substitute.
- Add Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrients.
- Use Leaner Cuts: Opt for a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin, to reduce fat content.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin experience, consider these serving suggestions:
- Pair with Sides: Serve with roasted sweet potatoes or a wild rice pilaf for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay, which complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Not Letting the Pork Rest: Allowing the pork to rest after cooking is crucial for juiciness; don’t skip this step!
- Overcooking the Pork: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the right temperature without drying out.
- Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the pork adds flavor and creates a beautiful crust; it’s worth the extra step!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To keep your Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze sliced pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Conclusion
In summary, Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin is a festive and flavorful dish that will impress your guests during the winter season. With its sweet and tangy glaze and tender pork, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any holiday table. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments below! Subscribe for more delicious recipes and festive ideas!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen pork tenderloin?
A: Yes, you can use frozen pork tenderloin. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q2: How can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the glaze and sear the pork in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
Q3: Can I use a different fruit for the glaze?
A: Absolutely! Apples or cherries can be great alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- For the Cranberry Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Season the Pork: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
Tip: Let the pork sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
Sear the Pork: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Tip: Use tongs to turn the pork and ensure even browning.
Step 3: Make the Cranberry Glaze
Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Tip: If you prefer a smoother glaze, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture after cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Pork
Glaze and Bake: Once the glaze is ready, pour half of it over the seared pork tenderloin. Reserve the other half for serving. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Rest the Pork: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist tenderloin.
Serve: Slice the pork into medallions and drizzle with the remaining cranberry glaze before serving. Enjoy the festive flavors!