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How to Make Thanksgiving Maple Cider Pork Tenderloin
This recipe is simple to prepare and can be made in under an hour, making it the perfect main dish for Thanksgiving. Here’s how to make it:
1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a nice sear on the meat.
- Rub the pork with olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, fresh rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to coat all sides of the tenderloin with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
2. Sear the Pork
- Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned pork tenderloins and sear on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, until the pork is nicely browned. This will help lock in the juices and add extra flavor to the meat.
3. Make the Maple Cider Glaze
- While the pork is searing, make the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple cider, maple syrup, Dijon mustard (if using), apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until it reduces slightly and thickens. This will concentrate the flavors and give the glaze a syrupy consistency.
- Stir in the butter to finish the glaze, making it glossy and smooth. Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and set aside.
4. Roast the Pork
- Once the pork is seared on all sides, pour half of the maple cider glaze over the pork in the skillet, turning the tenderloin to coat it in the glaze.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). The glaze will caramelize and form a sticky, flavorful coating on the tenderloin as it cooks.
5. Finish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the pork stays moist and tender.
- Slice the pork into medallions, drizzle with the remaining glaze, and serve.
Tips for the Perfect Pork Tenderloin
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork is cooked perfectly, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Pork is best cooked to 145°F (63°C), followed by a rest period. Overcooking can make it dry, so be sure to monitor the temperature closely.
- Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing the pork before roasting helps lock in the juices and creates a beautiful, flavorful crust on the outside. It also adds richness to the dish.
- Adjust the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce further. Conversely, if you like a more liquid glaze, reduce the simmering time slightly.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just warm it up before drizzling over the pork.
What to Serve with Maple Cider Pork Tenderloin
This pork tenderloin pairs perfectly with a variety of autumn-inspired sides. Here are a few ideas for creating a complete Thanksgiving meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the pork with a medley of roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed or roasted Brussels sprouts with a touch of balsamic vinegar and crispy bacon would complement the sweetness of the maple cider glaze.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower would make a comforting side to soak up the delicious glaze.
- Apple Cranberry Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with sliced apples, cranberries, and pecans dressed in a light vinaigrette would add a refreshing contrast to the rich pork.
- Stuffing: A savory herb stuffing with sage and onions pairs beautifully with the pork and ties in the fall flavors of the dish.
Variations to Try
- Add a Kick: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat.
- Citrus Zest: Add a touch of orange zest or lemon zest to the glaze for a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the maple and cider.
- Grilled Pork: If you prefer grilling, you can cook the pork tenderloin on a hot grill. Brush it with the maple cider glaze while grilling to create a caramelized finish.
Final Thoughts
Maple Cider Pork Tenderloin is a show-stopping dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. With its juicy, tender meat coated in a sweet and tangy glaze, this recipe is the perfect way to add warmth and depth to your Thanksgiving feast. The combination of maple syrup, apple cider, and aromatic spices creates a rich, comforting flavor that your guests will rave about.
Whether it’s the star of your Thanksgiving table or a cozy fall dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and bring the warmth of the season to your dining table with this deliciously festive Maple Cider Pork Tenderloin!
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