Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin

Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin Recipe - Canadian Cuisine

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin is a delicious and savory dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tanginess of dijon mustard. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a holiday meal, as it is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and tender pork.

History

The combination of maple syrup and mustard has been a classic flavor pairing in cooking for many years. This recipe takes that classic combination and elevates it with the addition of fresh sage, creating a dish that is both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

1 whole pork tenderloin
3 tsp fresh minced sage
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp butter
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
2 tbsp coarse grain dijon mustard

How to prepare

Slice the tenderloin into slices that are 0.33 inches thick, then sprinkle them with 1.5 tsp of sage, salt, and pepper.
Melt the butter in a heavy medium skillet over medium-high heat, then add the pork and cook until it turns golden brown on both sides.
Transfer the pork to a plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Add the broth, maple syrup, mustard, and the remaining sage to the skillet, and boil until the mixture becomes syrupy and thick, while scraping up the browned bits.
Reduce the heat to low, and return the pork and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Cook until the pork is just heated through.
Serve the pork with the sauce.

Variations

You can substitute the pork tenderloin with chicken breasts or thighs for a different flavor.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a tangy twist.
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the pork before serving for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the pork tenderloin into even slices to ensure that they cook evenly.

- Cooking the pork in butter adds a rich flavor to the dish, but you can also use olive oil if you prefer.

- Make sure to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet when making the sauce, as this will add depth of flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a combination of pan-searing and simmering to cook the pork tenderloin to perfection. Be sure to cook the pork until it is just heated through to ensure that it stays tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh sage, you can use dried sage instead. You can also substitute honey for the maple syrup if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce for the Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook the pork. Simply reheat the sauce and add the pork when you are ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin on a platter with the sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh sage leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as a pinot noir or merlot. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin is a good source of iron, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and mustard.

Summary

Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a healthy option for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin is a flavorful and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. With its rich flavors and tender pork, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves turning vibrant shades of red and gold, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary. Mary was an excellent cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. As we sat at her kitchen table sipping on cups of steaming tea, she pulled out a worn and stained recipe card from her recipe box.

"Have you ever tried Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin?" Mary asked with a twinkle in her eye.

I shook my head, intrigued by the combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard. Mary explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She promised me that it was a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special family meal.

As Mary walked me through the steps of preparing the dish, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and confidence in the kitchen. She chopped the pork tenderloin into medallions, marinated them in a mixture of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. The sweet and savory aromas filled her kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the pork had been marinated to perfection, Mary seared it in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and caramelized. The smell was heavenly, the pork tender and succulent, with a sticky glaze that glistened in the light. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Mary's family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. The Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin was a hit, the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender pork melted in my mouth, the maple syrup adding a hint of sweetness, while the mustard provided a subtle kick of heat. It was a dish that brought us all together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

After that day, I knew that I had to learn how to make Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin for myself. I asked Mary for the recipe, which she gladly shared with me. I practiced making it in my own kitchen, tweaking the ingredients and techniques until I had perfected the dish to my own taste.

Over the years, I have made Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin countless times, for family gatherings, special occasions, and quiet weeknight dinners. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that autumn day in Mary's kitchen, surrounded by loved ones and the delicious aroma of cooking pork.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition that Mary started so many years ago. And as I continue to cook and create in my own kitchen, I am grateful for the knowledge and inspiration that my dear friend has given me.

For me, Maple Mustard Pork Tenderloin is more than just a recipe. It is a symbol of friendship, love, and the joy of sharing good food with those we hold dear. And every time I take a bite of that tender, flavorful pork, I am reminded of the magic that can happen when we come together around the table.