Here’s a delicious recipe for Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce—a savory and slightly sweet dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or a weeknight dinner with a twist!
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1 (1 to 1.5 lb) pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Cherry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted (or use cherry preserves for a sweeter version)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (or 1/4 small onion)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Rub the tenderloin with olive oil and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear the Pork Tenderloin:
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Roast the Pork Tenderloin:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 18-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest, covered with foil, for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Cherry Sauce:
- While the pork is resting, make the cherry sauce. In the same skillet you used for the pork, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium.
- Add the shallot (or onion) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cherries break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
- If you want a richer sauce, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter at the end for extra smoothness and flavor.
- Serve:
- Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions.
- Spoon the cherry sauce over the pork slices and garnish with extra fresh thyme, if desired.
Tips:
- For a Slightly Sweeter Sauce: You can use cherry preserves or jam in place of fresh cherries. Just reduce the amount of honey or syrup if using sweetened preserves.
- For a More Intense Flavor: Let the sauce simmer longer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Side Suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.
This Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce is a beautiful, elegant dish that’s both savory and sweet, perfect for impressing guests or a special family dinner!