Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin

Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin Recipe - A Delicious and Easy Meal from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the savory taste of pork. The cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the tenderloin. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The combination of pork and apples is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for centuries. The sweetness of the apples complements the richness of the pork, creating a harmonious and delicious dish. Adding cinnamon to the mix enhances the flavors even more, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

500 g pork tenderloin
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 apples, peeled, cored, sliced
2 tbsp raisins

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 200°C.
Place the pork tenderloin in a roasting pan or casserole dish with a lid.
Combine the remaining ingredients in a bowl and stir.
Spoon the apple mixture around the pork tenderloin.
Cover and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the lid and spoon the apple mixture over the tenderloin.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the tenderloin is browned and cooked through.

Variations

Substitute the pork tenderloin with chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the apple mixture for a tangy twist.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sear the pork tenderloin before baking to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork is cooked to the proper temperature (145°F).

- Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a complete and hearty meal. A side salad or steamed greens would also complement the dish well.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the pork tenderloin before baking helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.

- Basting the tenderloin with the apple mixture during baking ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use pears instead of apples for a different flavor profile.

- Swap the raisins for dried cranberries or apricots for a variation in texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the apple mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

- The pork tenderloin can be marinated in the cinnamon mixture overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the pork tenderloin and fan it out on a platter for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of Pinot Noir or a crisp apple cider for a perfect match.

- A side of crusty bread or dinner rolls would also be a great addition to soak up the delicious juices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280

Carbohydrates

24g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 16g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 30g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 2%

- Vitamin C: 8%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

This recipe contains pork and cornstarch.

Summary

This Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and fats, making it a healthy option for a satisfying meal.

Summary

This Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of sweet apples, savory pork, and warm cinnamon creates a harmonious and flavorful meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a chilly autumn day, the leaves were falling from the trees and there was a crispness in the air that signaled the changing of the seasons. My dear friend Margaret had invited me over for dinner and she had prepared the most delicious Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin I had ever tasted.

As I sat at her dining table, savoring each bite of the tender, juicy pork, I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe. Margaret smiled warmly and happily handed me a stained, well-loved card with the recipe written in her elegant cursive handwriting. She told me that she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down to her many years ago.

I was amazed at how simple the ingredients were - just a pork tenderloin, apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a few other pantry staples. But the combination of flavors was truly magical. The sweetness of the apples paired perfectly with the savory pork, and the hint of cinnamon added a warm, comforting touch.

I knew right then and there that I had to make this recipe my own. I had always loved cooking, and I had amassed quite a collection of recipes over the years from various sources - cookbooks, magazines, friends, and family. But there was something special about this Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin that spoke to me on a deeper level.

I set to work in my own kitchen, carefully following Margaret's instructions and adding my own personal touch here and there. I marinated the pork in a mixture of apple cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon, letting it soak up all the flavors overnight. The next day, I seared the pork in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and then transferred it to the oven to finish cooking.

As the pork roasted, the scent of apples and cinnamon filled my kitchen, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction. I knew that this dish was going to be a hit with my family, and I couldn't wait to share it with them.

When the pork was done, I sliced it into thick, juicy pieces and arranged them on a platter. I topped the pork with a mixture of sautéed apples, onions, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, adding a final touch of sweetness and warmth. As I set the dish on the table, my family's eyes lit up with anticipation.

The first bite was met with a chorus of oohs and ahhs. The tender pork practically melted in our mouths, and the sweet, tangy apples added a burst of flavor with each bite. My husband declared it the best pork dish he had ever tasted, and my children eagerly asked for seconds.

From that moment on, Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin became a staple in our household. I made it for special occasions, holidays, and even just on a regular weeknight when I wanted to treat my family to something delicious. Each time I made it, I thought of Margaret and her grandmother, and I felt a sense of connection to them through this recipe that had become a beloved tradition in our family.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the secret to creating a dish that is not only delicious but also filled with love and memories. I have tweaked it here and there, adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a splash of apple cider vinegar to make it my own. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a warm, comforting meal that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that brought me to this recipe, I am grateful for the friendships, traditions, and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. And I am reminded once again of the power of food to nourish not only our bodies but also our souls. The next time you find yourself in the kitchen, I encourage you to try your hand at making Cinnamon Apple Pork Tenderloin. Who knows, it may just become a cherished recipe in your own family for years to come.