Are you craving a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner that won't keep you slaving away in the kitchen? Look no further! This recipe for Hatfield Pork Tenderloin is your answer. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a fantastic base for endless flavor variations. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) Hatfield Pork Tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra glaze)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Pork: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the Hatfield pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a beautiful sear.
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Season Generously: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the pork tenderloin.
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Sear the Pork (Optional): For extra flavor and a crispy exterior, heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step is optional but highly recommended.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet (or place the pork directly on a baking sheet) to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. Overcooking will result in dry meat.
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Create the Glaze (Optional): While the pork is baking, whisk together apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, and honey (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
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Rest and Serve: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork tenderloin. During this time, you can reheat the glaze if needed.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Slice the pork tenderloin and drizzle with the apple cider vinegar glaze. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Hatfield Pork Tenderloin:
- Don't Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for optimal tenderness.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pork to rest is crucial for retaining its juiciness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
Variations:
- Cranberry-Mustard Glaze: Substitute the apple cider vinegar glaze with a cranberry sauce and Dijon mustard mixture for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Garlic and Herb Roast: Add fresh garlic cloves and herbs like thyme or sage to the baking pan for an aromatic and flavorful roast.
- Maple-Glazed Pork: Replace honey with maple syrup for a richer, more intense sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and additions. For a 4-serving recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Hatfield pork tenderloin recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. The ease of preparation and versatility of flavors make it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!