One autumn day, the crisp air carried the warm aroma of apples and cinnamon, beckoning me to the kitchen. I couldn’t resist the temptation to try my hand at a mouthwatering Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash. As I gathered the ingredients, I knew this dish would become a new family favorite.
Pork tenderloin is a lean and versatile cut, and when paired with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, it’s an absolute delight. The combination of the juicy pork, the rich glaze, and the creamy sweet potato mash is simply unbeatable. I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this recipe.
Table of Contents
Why This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe is a game-changer. The secret lies in the perfect balance of flavors and the easy-to-follow steps that ensure your pork tenderloin turns out moist and flavorful every time. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it the perfect meal for a family or a dinner party.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
For this delectable dish, you’ll need:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Instructions
Preparing Your Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
This recipe takes 30 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a baking sheet, a saucepan, and a potato masher or electric mixer for this delicious Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash.
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the 1 pound of pork tenderloin on a baking sheet and season it with salt and pepper.
2- In a small saucepan, combine the 1/2 cup of apple cider, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
3- Pour the apple cider glaze over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
4- While the pork is roasting, peel and cube the 1 pound of sweet potatoes. Place them in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
5- Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and return them to the saucepan. Add the 2 tablespoons of butter and the 1/4 cup of milk. Mash the sweet potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy.
6- Remove the roasted pork tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve the pork tenderloin with the sweet potato mash, drizzling any remaining glaze from the baking sheet over the top.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is a hit, here are a few pro tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. This will help you achieve the perfect doneness.
- For a smoother sweet potato mash, use an electric mixer or potato ricer instead of a masher.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of paprika for a bit of heat.
Serving and Storing Your Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
Perfect Pairings for Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. For a beverage, a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing apple cider would be the perfect complement. This recipe serves 4 people, with each serving being 1 serving.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftovers, you can store the pork tenderloin and sweet potato mash separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pork in the oven or microwave, and the sweet potato mash on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also prepare the sweet potato mash in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve the dish.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
Creative Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Variations
For a seasonal twist, try roasting the pork tenderloin with a mixture of apples and onions. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to add complexity to the glaze. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try grilling the pork tenderloin instead of roasting it.
Making Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can substitute almond milk or oat milk for the regular milk in the sweet potato mash. For a low-carb option, you can replace the sweet potatoes with mashed cauliflower or roasted root vegetables. If you need to make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free Dijon mustard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pork besides tenderloin?
A: While pork tenderloin is the ideal cut for this recipe, you can also use pork loin or even boneless pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 4 servings, with each serving being 1 serving.
Q: Can I make the sweet potato mash ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely prepare the sweet potato mash in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Q: What should I do if the pork tenderloin is overcooked?
A: If the pork tenderloin is a bit dry or overcooked, try slicing it and serving it with the extra apple cider glaze. The glaze will help keep the pork moist and flavorful.
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is a quick and comforting family-style dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The tender pork is coated in a delectable apple cider glaze, while the creamy sweet potato mash provides a perfect side.
Ingredients
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. 2. In a large oven-safe skillet, sear the pork tenderloin over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider and brown sugar. Pour the mixture over the pork.
4. 4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, basting the pork with the glaze every 5 minutes, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. 5. Meanwhile, in a large pot, cover the sweet potato cubes with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. 6. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them with the butter, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
7. 7. Slice the pork tenderloin and serve immediately, drizzled with the apple cider glaze. Accompany with the creamy sweet potato mash.
Notes
For a heartier meal, serve the pork and sweet potato mash with roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is a true culinary delight that will have your family and friends raving. The combination of the juicy pork, the sweet and tangy glaze, and the creamy sweet potato mash is simply irresistible. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself. Let me know in the comments how it turns out!
