Savory Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Apple Chutney

 

This recipe combines the delicate flavor of pork tenderloin with a vibrant and slightly sweet apple chutney. It's a perfect meal for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. The pork is seared to a beautiful golden brown and then roasted to juicy perfection, while the chutney adds a delightful counterpoint with its mix of tart apples, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Pork Tenderloin:

• 1.5-2 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Apple Chutney:

• 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder.
• Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
• Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

2. Roast the Pork:

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
• Roast the pork tenderloin for 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 150°F (66°C) for medium, or 160°F (71°C) for well-done. (The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F for food safety.)
• Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork.

3. Make the Apple Chutney:

• While the pork is roasting, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the diced apples, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the chutney has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Serve:

• Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions.
• Serve the pork with a generous spoonful of apple chutney over the top or alongside.
  
  
  
  
  

Tips and Variations:

• For a sweeter chutney, use a sweeter variety of apple, such as Gala or Fuji.
• Add a splash of apple cider or brandy to the chutney for extra flavor.
• A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can also be added to the chutney.
• Serve the pork and chutney with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
• If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the pork in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for roasting.

Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make pork tenderloin with apple chutney! It's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.