Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: Pork Tenderloin with Apple Sauce! This dish takes me back to family gatherings at my grandma’s house, where the savory aroma of roasted pork mingled with the sweet scent of homemade applesauce. I still remember the excitement building as we all gathered around the table, and the first cut into the juicy pork tenderloin made everyone’s mouth water.
What I love about this recipe is how it perfectly balances the tenderness of the pork with the sweet and tangy notes of the apple sauce. It’s an easy dish to whip up for a weeknight dinner, but it also makes a fantastic impression when hosting friends or family. Plus, it’s a dish that brings a little bit of nostalgia with every bite!
What’s in Pork Tenderloin with Apple Sauce?
Pork Tenderloin: This cut of meat is super tender and cooks relatively quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I usually opt for a fresh, all-natural pork tenderloin from a local butcher or grocery store.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will help in searing the pork, giving it a beautiful golden crust and keeping it moist.
Salt and Pepper: The basics! Seasoning isn’t just a formality; it truly enhances the flavors of the meat.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a depth of flavor that really complements the pork. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even roast it!
Apples: The star of the show for the sauce! I usually go with Granny Smith for their tartness, but you could mix in some sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for a unique flavor.
Cinnamon: A dash of warmth and sweetness—just the right touch to enhance the apples without overwhelming the dish.
Sugar: Just a sprinkle to balance the tartness of the apples. You can use brown sugar for a little extra molasses flavor.
Is Pork Tenderloin with Apple Sauce Good for You?
Well, let’s break it down!
Pork Tenderloin: It’s a lean source of protein, low in fat compared to other cuts of pork, and provides important nutrients like B vitamins, which support energy levels and brain function.
Apples: They’re not just delicious; they are packed with fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. The skin of the apples contains most of the fiber, so don’t peel them if you want a nutritious punch!
Olive Oil: Packed with monounsaturated fats, olive oil can help lower bad cholesterol levels and is great for heart health.
While this dish is wholesome, portion control is key! As delicious as it is, remember the sugar content can creep up with the applesauce, especially if you’re adding that pinch of sugar.
Ingredients
– 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 3-4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup water
This recipe serves approximately 4 people, perfect for the family!
How to Make Pork Tenderloin with Apple Sauce?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the pork in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Transfer the pork to a baking dish and roast it in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. While the pork is cooking, prepare the apple sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine your sliced apples, minced garlic, cinnamon, sugar, and water.
6. Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft, about 10-15 minutes. You can mash them a bit with a fork for a smoother texture or leave them chunky for some added character.
7. Once the pork is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve the slices of pork with a generous spoonful of apple sauce on top.
Serving Suggestions and Fun Variations!
There are so many ways you can jazz things up! Try adding some chopped onions or even cranberries to the apple sauce for an extra layer of flavor. You could serve this scrumptious dish with roasted vegetables or a side of whole grain rice. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp salad!
Don’t hesitate to experiment. Sometimes, I’ll add a splash of apple cider or even a hint of mustard to elevate the sauce.
I can’t tell you how much I’ve loved sharing this recipe! There’s something so comforting about the combination of juicy pork and sweet apple sauce. Whether you’re making this for a cozy meal at home or serving it at a gathering, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Please, let me know how it turns out or share any fun variations you come up with. Happy cooking!