Apple-Maple Brined Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Delve into the delightful flavors of summer with this Apple-Maple Brined Pork Tenderloin, a perfect dish that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast. As the tenderloin marinates in a sweet and savory brine, it absorbs the luscious notes of apple and maple, making each bite a tantalizing experience. Pair this dish with a fluffy rice pilaf and crisp green beans, and finish your meal with a generous slice of fresh peach pie crowned with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a celebratory 4th of July feast or any summer gathering that will leave your guests raving about your culinary prowess.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Apple-Maple Brined Pork Tenderloin |
| Description | A succulent pork tenderloin brined with apple and maple flavors, ideal for summer meals. Served best with rice pilaf and green beans, accompanied by a refreshing dessert. |
| Prep Time | 8 hours |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 8 hours 25 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Recipe Category | Pork |
| Keywords | Apple, Fruit, Meat, Summer |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5 based on 1 review) |
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to prepare this mouthwatering dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cold water | 4 cups |
| Apple cider | 2 cups |
| Maple syrup (real) | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh rosemary leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Fresh coarse ground black pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pork tenderloin | 1 (approximately 1.5 pounds) |
Nutritional Information
For a better understanding of what you’re serving, here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 276.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 99.8 mg |
| Sodium | 4795.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugars | 16 g |
| Protein | 31.1 g |
Instructions
To create this scrumptious Apple-Maple Brined Pork Tenderloin, follow these detailed steps:
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Prepare the Brine: In a large container or stockpot, stir together the cold water, apple cider, maple syrup, and salt until the salt is completely dissolved. This mixture will serve as the flavorful brine that infuses the pork with moisture and taste.
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Brine the Pork: Submerge the pork tenderloin in the brine, ensuring that it is fully covered. Seal the container or cover the stockpot, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours but no longer than 12 hours. This process is crucial as it allows the pork to absorb the sweet and savory flavors of the brine.
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Prepare the Grill: When you’re ready to cook, heat your gas or charcoal grill for direct heat cooking. The grilling process will add a wonderful char and depth of flavor to the meat.
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Rinse and Dry: Once the pork has finished brining, carefully remove it from the brine mixture and rinse it thoroughly under cool running water to wash away any excess salt and brine flavor. After rinsing, pat the pork dry with paper towels, ensuring it’s as dry as possible for optimal grilling.
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Season the Pork: Discard the brine mixture. Generously sprinkle the pork tenderloin with fresh rosemary leaves, coarse black pepper, and garlic powder. This seasoning will complement the sweetness of the brine and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Grill the Pork: Place the seasoned pork on the grill, positioning it 4 to 6 inches from medium heat. Grill the pork for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the pork to reach an internal temperature of 160°F, with a slight blush of pink in the center, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
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Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period is vital as it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful tenderloin.
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Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Apple-Maple Brined Pork Tenderloin alongside a fluffy rice pilaf and fresh green beans for a complete meal. For dessert, indulge in a slice of fresh peach pie topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful end to your summer feast.
Enjoy this exquisite recipe for Apple-Maple Brined Pork Tenderloin, a dish that is sure to impress and satisfy the appetites of your family and friends. The combination of sweet maple, crisp apple cider, and aromatic herbs creates a deliciously harmonious flavor that is perfect for warm weather gatherings. Your culinary creations will shine with this standout dish!
