Apple and Onion Pork Tenderloin: A Flavorful Fall Feast
This recipe combines the savory tenderness of pork tenderloin with the sweet and slightly tangy flavors of apples and onions, creating a delightful and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion, especially during the autumn months. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a standout, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this Apple and Onion Pork Tenderloin is sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
* **Tender Pork:** Pork tenderloin is incredibly lean and tender, making it a quick-cooking and healthy option.
* **Flavorful Combination:** Apples and onions complement the pork beautifully, adding sweetness, acidity, and depth of flavor.
* **Versatile:** This dish can be served with various sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes.
* **Easy to Prepare:** The recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients.
* **Impressive Presentation:** The caramelized apples and onions create a visually appealing dish.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 large onions, thinly sliced
* 2 apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith), cored and sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
## Equipment Needed
* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Meat thermometer
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Apple and Onion Pork Tenderloin:
### 1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
* **Trim the Silver Skin:** Remove the silver skin from the pork tenderloins. This thin membrane can be tough and chewy, so it’s best to remove it. Use a sharp knife to slide under the silver skin and gently pull it away. Pat the tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps with browning.
### 2. Sear the Pork Tenderloin
* **Heat the Oil:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the pork. A hot skillet will help create a nice sear.
* **Sear the Pork:** Add the pork tenderloins to the skillet and sear them on all sides until they are golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing the pork locks in the juices and adds flavor. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
### 3. Sauté the Onions and Apples
* **Sauté the Onions:** Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook over medium heat until they are softened and lightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning. Caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness.
* **Add the Apples:** Add the sliced apples and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender and slightly softened. The apples should retain some of their shape but be easily pierced with a fork.
### 4. Create the Sauce
* **Deglaze the Pan:** Pour the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits add a lot of flavor to the sauce. This process is called deglazing.
* **Add Seasonings:** Stir in the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. The sauce should be slightly thickened.
### 5. Combine and Bake (or Simmer)
**Option 1: Baking**
* **Return Pork to Pan:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seared pork tenderloins on top of the apple and onion mixture in the skillet. Ensure the pork is nestled amongst the apples and onions.
* **Bake:** Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Accurate temperature is key to ensuring the pork is cooked through but remains tender.
* **Rest:** Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
**Option 2: Simmering on the Stovetop**
* **Return Pork to Pan:** Place the seared pork tenderloins on top of the apple and onion mixture in the skillet. Ensure the pork is nestled amongst the apples and onions.
* **Simmer:** Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Again, use a meat thermometer to check for accurate doneness.
* **Rest:** Remove the pork from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting is just as important with simmering as it is with baking.
### 6. Slice and Serve
* **Slice the Pork:** Slice the pork tenderloins into 1/2-inch thick medallions. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean slices.
* **Serve:** Arrange the sliced pork on a platter and spoon the apple and onion mixture over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips for Success
* **Choose the Right Apples:** Select apples that hold their shape well when cooked, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith. Softer apples may turn to mush.
* **Don’t Overcook the Pork:** Pork tenderloin is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.
* **Let the Pork Rest:** Resting the pork after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
* **Adjust Seasonings:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or thyme to suit your preferences.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can add a bright, aromatic flavor to the dish.
* **For Thicker Sauce:** If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir until the sauce thickens.
* **Add a Splash of Wine:** For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of dry white wine to the skillet when deglazing the pan.
## Serving Suggestions
This Apple and Onion Pork Tenderloin pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes are excellent choices.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash complement the sweetness of the apples and onions.
* **Rice or Quinoa:** These grains provide a simple and satisfying base for the pork and sauce.
* **Green Salad:** A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
* **Bread:** Crusty bread or rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
## Variations
* **Add Dried Fruit:** Dried cranberries or raisins can add a chewy texture and extra sweetness to the dish.
* **Use Different Spices:** Experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice, for a warm, autumnal flavor.
* **Add Nuts:** Toasted pecans or walnuts can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
* **Use Different Types of Onions:** Try using red onions or shallots for a slightly different flavor profile.
* **Maple Syrup:** Substitute brown sugar for maple syrup.
## Make Ahead Instructions
You can prepare certain components of this dish ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking.
* **Slice the Onions and Apples:** Slice the onions and apples up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent the apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice.
* **Prepare the Sauce:** The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce before adding it to the skillet.
* **Sear the Pork:** You can sear the pork tenderloins up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bring the pork to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Apple and Onion Pork Tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the pork in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook the pork when reheating, as it can become dry.
* **Freeze:** You can freeze leftover pork for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw the pork in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g
*Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
## Conclusion
This Apple and Onion Pork Tenderloin is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender texture of the pork, makes it a crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Enjoy this flavorful fall feast with your family and friends!