Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my mom would make this dish for special occasions, and the aroma of the tender pork and the sweet glaze would fill our entire house. I can still vividly recall the first time I tried it – the juicy, flavorful pork tenderloin paired with the creamy, comforting sweet potato mash was an absolute delight. From that moment on, I was hooked, and Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash became a staple in our household.
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
What makes this Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and the incredible tenderness of the pork. The secret lies in the way the pork is seared and basted with the apple cider glaze, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior. And the sweet potato mash? It’s the perfect accompaniment, adding a creamy, comforting element to the dish that just can’t be beaten.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- Pork tenderloin: The star of the show, the pork tenderloin is the most tender and flavorful cut of pork.
- Apple cider: This sweet and tangy liquid is the base for the glaze, adding a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
- Brown sugar: A touch of brown sugar helps to caramelize the glaze, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Sweet potatoes: Creamy, comforting, and packed with nutrients, sweet potatoes make the perfect mash to accompany the pork tenderloin.
- Butter and cream: These dairy products add richness and creaminess to the sweet potato mash.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the best in the other ingredients.
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 Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe is easy to prepare and comes together in just about an hour. You’ll need a large skillet or baking dish for the pork, and a medium saucepan for the sweet potato mash.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper.
2- Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until it’s golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3- While the pork is searing, peel and dice the sweet potatoes. Place them in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4- Once the pork is seared, brush it with the apple cider glaze, making sure to coat it evenly. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5- Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and mash them with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
6- Remove the pork tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve the Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze alongside the Sweet Potato Mash, and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Make sure to pat the pork tenderloin dry before searing – this will help it develop a nice, crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcook the pork – aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the juiciest, most tender results.
- Be generous with the apple cider glaze – the more you baste the pork, the more flavorful it will be.
- For the smoothest, creamiest sweet potato mash, use a ricer or a handheld potato masher.
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 is a wonderfully versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. For a cozy, family-style meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad and a crisp, dry white wine. Or, for a more elegant dinner party, pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts and a bold, full-bodied red wine.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pork and mash in a baking dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the sweet potato mash and the apple cider glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the dish. On the day of, simply sear and roast the pork tenderloin, then reheat the mash and glaze before serving.
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
While the classic Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this dish. Try substituting the sweet potatoes for a mix of root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips, for a heartier mash. Or, for a more autumnal twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the glaze.
Making Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Diet-Friendly
To make this Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe more diet-friendly, you can try a few simple substitutions. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour to thicken the glaze. For a low-carb adaptation, replace the sweet potatoes with mashed cauliflower or a blend of roasted vegetables. And for a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and vegan butter in the sweet potato mash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pork instead of tenderloin?
A: While pork tenderloin is the most tender and flavorful cut, you can certainly use a different pork cut, such as pork loin or boneless pork chops. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary, and the texture and juiciness of the final dish may be slightly different.
Q: How can I ensure the pork is cooked through without drying it out?
A: The key is to sear the pork first to create a crispy exterior, then finish it in the oven. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – you’re looking for 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. Basting the pork with the apple cider glaze during the roasting process also helps keep it moist and flavorful.
Q: Can I make the sweet potato mash ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The sweet potato mash is the perfect make-ahead component. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve the dish.
Q: How do I reheat leftover Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash?
A: To reheat the leftovers, place the pork and sweet potato mash in a baking dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the pork.
Q: Can I substitute the sweet potatoes for something else?
A: Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the traditional choice, you can use other root vegetables, such as regular potatoes, carrots, or parsnips, to make the mash. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Tender pork tenderloin coated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, served with creamy mashed sweet potatoes for a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
– 1 lb pork tenderloin
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. – In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. – Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
4. – Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. – Pour the apple cider glaze over the pork and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. – While the pork is cooking, place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. – Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with the butter, milk, and salt until smooth and creamy.
8. – Slice the pork tenderloin and serve with the sweet potato mash. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top.
Notes
– For a thicker glaze, simmer the apple cider mixture for a few minutes longer.
– Try different herb combinations, such as rosemary or sage, in the sweet potato mash.
– Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of juicy, flavorful pork and the creamy, comforting sweet potato mash is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So don’t wait – try it out today and let me know what you think!