It was a warm summer evening when the craving for something new and exciting hit me. As I stood in my kitchen, staring at the ingredients on the counter, I knew exactly what I wanted to create – Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos. The idea had been simmering in the back of my mind for weeks, and tonight was the night to bring it to life.
I can still remember the first time I tried Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos. It was at a small taco truck downtown, and the moment I took that first bite, I was hooked. The sweet, tangy glaze perfectly complemented the tender, juicy pork, and the crunchy slaw on top added just the right amount of texture. From that moment on, I knew I had to master this dish and make it a staple in my culinary repertoire.
It’s been years since that fateful taco truck encounter, and I’ve perfected my own version of Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos. They’ve become a go-to meal for me, whether I’m hosting a casual dinner party or just craving a delicious and satisfying weeknight dinner. The key to these Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, and I’m excited to share my secrets with you.
Why This Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos
What sets these Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos apart is the unique glaze that coats the pork. Instead of using a traditional barbecue or teriyaki sauce, I’ve developed a special cherry-based glaze that adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the dish. The key is to simmer the cherries with a blend of spices, vinegar, and a bit of brown sugar until it transforms into a thick, syrupy glaze. This glaze not only gives the pork an incredible flavor but also creates a beautiful, shiny caramelized crust on the outside.
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Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos
- Total Time: 22
- Yield: 8-10 tacos
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering fusion of sweet cherry glaze and tender pork in these irresistible Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos. A quick and easy recipe that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
– Toppings: diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
1. 1. In a large skillet, combine the pork, cherry preserves, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili powder, and garlic powder. Stir to coat the pork.
2. 2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
3. 3. Warm the tortillas according to package instructions.
4. 4. Spoon the cherry glazed pork into the tortillas and top with diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Notes
For a spicier taco, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pork mixture. You can also use a combination of pork and chicken for the filling.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
But the magic doesn’t stop there. I’ve also perfected the technique for cooking the pork to juicy, tender perfection. By searing the pork first and then finishing it in the oven, you end up with a piece of meat that’s bursting with flavor and melts in your mouth. And when you combine that pork with the tangy cherry glaze, the creamy avocado, the crunchy slaw, and the warm, soft tortillas, you have a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Pork tenderloin: This lean cut of meat is perfect for these Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos, as it cooks quickly and stays juicy and tender.
– Fresh cherries: The star of the show, these sweet, tart cherries are the foundation for the unique glaze.
– Apple cider vinegar: This adds just the right amount of acidity to balance out the sweetness of the cherries.
– Brown sugar: A touch of brown sugar helps to caramelize the glaze and gives it a rich, deep flavor.
– Spices: A blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder adds warmth and complexity to the glaze.
– Avocado: Creamy avocado provides a cooling contrast to the sweet and tangy pork.
– Shredded cabbage: Crisp, crunchy cabbage slaw adds texture and freshness to the tacos.
– Tortillas: Warm, soft corn tortillas are the perfect vessel for these delicious Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos.
Step-by-Step Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos Instructions
Preparing Your Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos
These Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos come together quickly, making them the perfect weeknight meal. The total cooking time is around 30 minutes, and all you’ll need is a large skillet, a baking sheet, and a few basic kitchen tools. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to get these tacos on the table in no time.
1- Start by patting the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and seasoning it generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2- Heat a large skillet over high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Sear the pork on all sides until a nice, golden-brown crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3- Transfer the seared pork to a baking sheet and finish cooking it in the oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4- While the pork is in the oven, prepare the cherry glaze. In the same skillet you used for searing, combine the fresh cherries, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cherries have softened and the glaze has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
5- Once the pork is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
6- Assemble your Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos by placing the pork strips in the center of warm corn tortillas, topping them with the cherry glaze, shredded cabbage, and sliced avocado. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
– Let the pork rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, which will keep the meat nice and juicy.
– Adjust the spice level of the cherry glaze to your personal preference by adding more or less chili powder.
– For an extra touch of flavor, try garnishing the tacos with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
– Avoid overcrowding the pork in the skillet when searing to ensure a nice, even crust.
– Keep a close eye on the cherry glaze to prevent it from burning or becoming too thick.
Serving and Storing Your Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos
Perfect Pairings for Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos
These Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos are the perfect main dish for a casual gathering or a weeknight dinner. They pair beautifully with a fresh, crunchy slaw and a side of roasted sweet potato wedges. For a refreshing beverage, try pairing them with a crisp, citrusy white wine or a light, fizzy Mexican lager.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftover Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pork and glaze in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the cherry glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, simply reheat the glaze and toss it with the cooked pork. You can also slice the pork and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, then simply assemble the tacos when you’re ready to eat.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos
Creative Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on these Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos. Try using a different protein, such as chicken or shrimp, or swap out the cherries for another fruit, like peaches or pineapple. You could also experiment with different spice blends, such as a smoky chipotle or a zesty lime and cilantro.
For a seasonal twist, consider making a fall-inspired version with roasted butternut squash or a winter version with cranberries and orange zest. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing these delicious tacos.
Making Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos Diet-Friendly
To make these Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos a bit more diet-friendly, you can try a few simple substitutions. For a low-carb option, use lettuce wraps instead of traditional tortillas. You can also use a sugar-free sweetener in the cherry glaze to reduce the overall sugar content.
For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the tortillas for your favorite gluten-free wrap or serve the pork and glaze over a bed of mixed greens. And for a dairy-free take, skip the optional feta cheese and use avocado, salsa, or a cashew-based crema as toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen cherries will work just as well in the cherry glaze. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the skillet.
Q: How can I make the pork extra tender?
A: For the most tender pork, I recommend brining the tenderloin in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This helps the meat retain moisture and become extra juicy.
Q: Can I make the cherry glaze in advance?
A: Yes, the cherry glaze can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: How can I scale this recipe up or down?
A: This recipe is easily scalable. For a larger crowd, simply increase the amounts of pork, cherries, and other ingredients proportionally. For a smaller serving, you can halve the recipe.
Q: What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?
A: No problem! Instead of relying on a thermometer, you can check for doneness by gently pressing on the pork. When it feels firm with just a slight give, it’s likely cooked through.
Conclusion
These Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos are truly a flavor sensation that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. The combination of the sweet, tangy cherry glaze, the juicy pork, and the array of fresh toppings is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a delicious weeknight meal, I’m confident that this recipe will become a new favorite in your household.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy the best Cherry Glazed Pork Tacos you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know how they turned out in the comments below. Bon appétit!