Pork Tenderloin with Cumberland Sauce
If you’re looking for a recipe that turns an everyday meal into something spectacular, this Pork Tenderloin with Cumberland Sauce is the perfect choice. Not only does it take minimal time to prepare and cook, but it also features a rich, burgundy-colored sauce that elevates the dish to an elegant entrée fit for any occasion. The sauce’s sweet and tangy profile complements the tender, juicy pork, making it a favorite for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 1 pork tenderloin
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tsp olive oil (divided, plus an additional 1 tsp)
For the Cumberland Sauce:
- 1 onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red currant jelly
- 1 tbsp black currant jelly
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 509.4 kcal
- Fat: 14.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.6 g
- Cholesterol: 147.6 mg
- Sodium: 158.7 mg
- Carbohydrates: 22.8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugars: 14.3 g
- Protein: 47.2 g
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Pork
- Heat the Oil: Begin by heating 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the Pork: Lightly season the pork tenderloin with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in the skillet and cook for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side. The aim is to achieve a nice brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy and just cooked through.
2. Making the Cumberland Sauce
- Transfer and Keep Warm: Once the pork is cooked, transfer it to a plate or platter and keep it warm by covering it with foil.
- Sauté the Onions/Shallots: Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of oil to the skillet. Add the finely chopped onion or shallot and cook, stirring frequently, until softened. This should take about 30 seconds.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry red wine and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously. Allow it to boil for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until it reduces to roughly 1/3 cup.
- Thicken the Sauce: Dissolve the cornstarch in fresh lemon juice. Whisk this mixture into the reduced wine sauce. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Add the Sweet Elements: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the red currant jelly, black currant jelly, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
3. Serving
- Plate and Sauce the Pork: Slice the pork tenderloin and arrange it on plates or a serving platter. Generously spoon the Cumberland sauce over the pork.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the dish immediately while everything is still warm. This recipe serves 2 and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.
Cooking Tips and Notes
- Versatility of the Sauce: This Cumberland sauce can be doubled easily if you’re serving more people or if you simply want extra sauce for your meal.
- Fruit Jellies: If you can’t find both red and black currant jellies, using just one type will still yield a delicious sauce. Julie, one of the recipe reviewers, mentioned that black currant jelly alone produced a wonderful result.
- Recipe Origin: This recipe was originally posted on Gail’s Recipe Swap by Liz LA, who adapted it from Eating Well Magazine. Julie, another contributor, noted that this recipe marked her first time cooking pork tenderloin, and it quickly became a favorite in her household.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: For a balanced meal, consider serving the pork tenderloin with steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a light salad. The tangy sauce pairs well with a variety of vegetables and grains.
- Wine Pairing: A robust red wine such as a Pinot Noir or Merlot would complement the flavors of the dish wonderfully. The wine used in the sauce can also be served alongside the meal to harmonize the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Pork Tenderloin with Cumberland Sauce is a dish that exemplifies how a few quality ingredients and a simple preparation method can transform a meal into a memorable dining experience. The combination of the tender pork and the rich, glossy sauce creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that is sure to impress. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is both easy to follow and sophisticated enough to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Enjoy this elegant yet straightforward dish, and don’t hesitate to make it a staple in your recipe collection.
