Pork tenderloin with apple sauce and glazed carrots

Delicious Recipe: Pork Tenderloin with Apple Sauce and Glazed Carrots

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines the savory flavor of pork with the natural sweetness of apples and carrots, you’ve come to the right place! This pork tenderloin with apple sauce and glazed carrots is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. Perfect for a special dinner or to impress your guests, this dish is sure to become one of your favorites. Let’s get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Necessary Ingredients:

- 2 green apples (approximately 300 g)
- 1 cm fresh ginger
- 150 g brown rice
- 200 g small carrots (or sliced carrots)
- 200 g green beans
- 220 g lean pork tenderloin
- 1/2 nutmeg (grated)
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- Olive oil
- 2 oranges (for juice)
- 2 tablespoons yogurt (preferably Greek)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Apples and Ginger:
- Start by washing the apples thoroughly, then cut them into quarters and remove the core. Dice the apples into small cubes for even cooking.
- Peel the ginger and chop it finely. The ginger adds a warm and spicy flavor that will perfectly complement the sweetness of the apples.

2. Boiling the Apples and Ginger:
- In a saucepan, add the diced apples and chopped ginger along with 300 ml of water. Bring to a boil over high heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- After boiling, use a blender to turn the mixture into a smooth paste. This apple sauce will add a sweet and flavorful note to your main dish.

3. Cooking the Rice:
- While the apples are boiling, cook the brown rice according to the package instructions. Brown rice is a healthier option, rich in fiber and nutrients, which will perfectly complement the dish.

4. Preparing the Carrots and Green Beans:
- Use a steamer or a pot with a steamer basket to cook the carrots. Steam them for 20 minutes, adding the green beans in the last 4 minutes. These vegetables will retain a crunchy texture and vibrant color.

5. Preparing the Pork Tenderloin:
- While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the pork tenderloin. Season the meat with salt, pepper, chopped sage leaves, and grated nutmeg. These spices will enhance the flavor of the meat.
- In a skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Sear the meat for 4 minutes on each side or until it becomes golden brown and nicely caramelized.

6. Resting the Meat:
- Once seared, let the pork tenderloin rest on a platter for a few minutes. This step is essential to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier meat.

7. Glazing the Carrots:
- Lower the heat and add the juice from the two oranges to the skillet over the carrots. Shake the skillet occasionally until the carrots are glazed and flavored with the sweet and tangy juice.

8. Assembling the Dish:
- Slice the pork tenderloin into thin pieces. On a platter, arrange the slices of meat alongside the cooked rice and glazed carrots.
- Mix the yogurt with half of the previously prepared apple sauce and drizzle it over the meat for a creamy and fresh touch.
- Pour the remaining sauce from the skillet over the dish and serve immediately.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing Apples: Green apples are ideal for this dish due to their acidity, which balances the sweetness of the sauce. You can also use red apples for a sweeter taste, but adjust the sugar in the sauce accordingly.
- Vegetarian Option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the pork tenderloin with marinated tofu or tempeh, fried until crispy.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. You can also add a green salad with lemon dressing for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The pork tenderloin provides essential proteins, while the apples and carrots offer fiber and antioxidants. Olive oil is a healthy source of fats, and yogurt adds beneficial probiotics for digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use chicken or beef. Cook them according to the specific times for each type of meat.
- How can I store the apple sauce? The apple sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be used as a topping for yogurt or pancakes.
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Zucchini, broccoli, or peas are excellent alternatives.

This pork tenderloin with apple sauce and glazed carrots recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of creativity to your daily cooking. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent in the kitchen!