Sure, let’s dive into the flavorful world of Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Dijon-Apricot Mop Sauce! 🍖 This recipe, perfect for any occasion, combines succulent pork tenderloin with a tangy and sweet apricot-infused sauce that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With just the right blend of herbs, spices, and seasonings, this dish promises to be a hit at your next gathering or weeknight dinner.
Rubbed Pork Tenderloin With Dijon-Apricot Mop Sauce
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp pepper
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp celery seeds
- 2 tbsp onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Vegetable oil spray
Instructions:
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Prepare the Rub:
- In a small bowl, combine the dried rosemary, dried thyme, ground cumin, pepper, paprika, and celery seeds to create the rub mixture.
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Rub the Pork:
- Using your hands or a spoon, evenly rub the mixture over the pork tenderloin, ensuring all sides are coated. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the sauce.
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Preheat the Oven or Grill:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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Make the Mop Sauce:
- Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, swirling to coat.
- Saute the finely chopped onion for 2 to 3 minutes, or until translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Optionally, reserve 1/2 cup of the sauce to use as a dipping sauce for the cooked pork.
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Prepare the Pork for Cooking:
- Lightly spray a broiling pan and rack with vegetable oil spray.
- Place the marinated pork tenderloin on the rack in the pan.
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Cook the Pork:
- Bake the pork in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, use a pastry brush or basting mop to generously baste the pork tenderloin on all sides with the prepared mop sauce.
- Return the pork to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, baste the pork again with the mop sauce.
- Continue to bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink in the center or registers 165°F (75°C) on a meat thermometer.
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Alternative Cooking Method (Grilling):
- If grilling, cook the pork tenderloin for 10 minutes per side (40 minutes total) on a preheated grill.
- Baste the pork with the mop sauce and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the pork is cooked through.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, let the pork tenderloin rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the tenderloin slices drizzled with any remaining mop sauce or the reserved dipping sauce, if desired.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor.
This Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Dijon-Apricot Mop Sauce is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors that will elevate any mealtime experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress!