Pork Tenderloin with Orange Sauce

Pork Tenderloin with Orange Sauce Recipe - American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pork tenderloin with orange sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of pork with the tangy sweetness of oranges. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a holiday meal, as it is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation.

History

The combination of pork and oranges has been a classic pairing in many cuisines around the world for centuries. The sweet and citrusy flavor of oranges complements the rich and savory taste of pork, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This recipe for pork tenderloin with orange sauce is a modern twist on this traditional flavor combination, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to a classic dish.

Ingredients

1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5 lb (680 g))
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp butter or margarine
0.5 cup chopped onion
0.33 cup dry white wine
3 oranges
3 tbsp sugar
1 bay leaf
2 tsp cornstarch
3 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Season the tenderloin with salt and pepper.
Sauté the meat in butter in an oven-proof skillet until brown on all sides.
Push the meat to one side; add the onion and cook until tender.
Pour the wine and juice from 2 oranges over the meat.
Stir in the sugar and bay leaf.
Cover and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
Peel the remaining orange and section it.
Cut the peel into very thin strips.
Boil the peel in a small amount of water until tender and drain.
Remove the meat from the pan and discard the bay leaf.
Mix the cornstarch with 1 tbsp of water.
Add the cornstarch mixture to the liquid in the skillet.
Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Add the peel and slice the meat.
Place the meat on a platter of fluffy rice.
Pour the sauce over the meat.
Garnish with orange sections.

Variations

For a spicier version of this dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Substitute chicken or turkey tenderloin for the pork for a lighter and leaner option.
Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor of the meat.

- Searing the pork tenderloin in butter before baking helps to lock in the juices and create a crispy crust on the outside.

- Be sure to cook the pork tenderloin until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure that it is cooked through but still tender and juicy.

- Adding the orange peel strips to the sauce at the end of cooking adds a burst of citrus flavor and a beautiful garnish to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve pork tenderloin with orange sauce with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of orange for a refreshing beverage.

Cooking Techniques

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

- Baking the pork tenderloin in the oven allows it to cook evenly and retain its tenderness.

- Thickening the sauce with cornstarch creates a smooth and velvety texture that coats the meat beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of white wine for a non-alcoholic version of the sauce.

- Replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for a gluten-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pork tenderloin with orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

- The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced pork tenderloin on a platter of fluffy rice and drizzle the orange sauce over the top for an elegant presentation. - Garnish the dish with fresh orange slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair pork tenderloin with orange sauce with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

- Serve this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a light and healthy option.

- Pair it with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for a perfect wine pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of pork tenderloin with orange sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pork tenderloin with orange sauce contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of pork tenderloin with orange sauce contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of pork tenderloin with orange sauce contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of pork tenderloin with orange sauce contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Oranges are a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. Pork tenderloin is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and cornstarch, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Pork tenderloin with orange sauce is a balanced and nutritious meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

Summary

Pork tenderloin with orange sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a holiday meal. The tender and juicy pork is complemented by the tangy sweetness of the orange sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This recipe is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who lived in a quaint little cottage on the outskirts of town. Margaret was always a fantastic cook, and I always loved trying out her new recipes.

On this particular day, Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, inviting me into her cozy kitchen. The scent of something delicious was wafting through the air, and I couldn't wait to see what she had been cooking up. As I sat at the kitchen table, sipping on a cup of tea, Margaret bustled around the kitchen, preparing our lunch.

I watched in awe as she expertly seasoned a beautiful pork tenderloin and placed it in the oven to roast. The aroma of the meat cooking was intoxicating, and I knew that whatever she was making was going to be absolutely delicious. Margaret then turned her attention to making the sauce, squeezing fresh oranges and adding a few secret ingredients that she kept hidden in her pantry.

As the pork finished cooking and the sauce simmered on the stove, Margaret plated up our meal and invited me to take the first bite. The combination of the tender, juicy pork and the tangy, citrusy sauce was absolutely divine. I couldn't get enough of it, and I begged Margaret to share the recipe with me.

With a twinkle in her eye, Margaret agreed to pass on the recipe, but with a caveat. She told me that this recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, and it was a closely guarded secret. I promised to keep it safe and to only share it with those who would truly appreciate it.

Over the years, I have made this pork tenderloin with orange sauce countless times, tweaking and perfecting the recipe to suit my own tastes. It has become a staple in my own kitchen, and I love sharing it with friends and family. The sweet and tangy flavors of the orange sauce pair perfectly with the savory pork, creating a dish that is sure to impress even the most discerning of guests.

I often think back to that warm summer day at Margaret's cottage, and I am grateful for the friendship and the recipe that she shared with me. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity and love for others, and this dish embodies that sentiment perfectly. I hope that whoever tries this recipe enjoys it as much as I do, and that it brings them as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years.