Pork tenderloin with pineapple

Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple: A Delicious Culinary Experience

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Imagine a meal where flavors blend perfectly, and the combination of succulent meat and sweet fruits delights your taste buds. This pork tenderloin with pineapple recipe is exactly what you need to bring an exotic touch to your kitchen. It is a simple yet impressive recipe, ideal for a special dinner or occasion.

Recipe History:
The combination of meat and fruit is a culinary technique used for centuries. This approach blends the natural sweetness of fruits with the intense flavors of meat, creating a perfect balance. Pork tenderloin with pineapple has become popular due to its contrasting textures and complementary flavors, often served at festive meals.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork tenderloin
- 1 fresh pineapple (not canned)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 glass of white wine (approximately 200 ml)
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of brandy
- 25 ml pineapple juice
- Oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
- 2 cubes of butter (approximately 50 g)
- 2 skewers about 25-30 cm long

Helpful Tips for Ingredients:
- Choose a ripe pineapple with yellow skin and healthy green leaves. A ripe pineapple will provide a sweeter taste and better texture.
- The pork tenderloin should be fresh, with no excess fat, to achieve succulent meat.
- The white wine should be dry to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
- Smoked paprika can add an interesting flavor to this dish.

Preparation Technique:

1. Preparing the Meat:
- Cut the pork tenderloin into thick round slices of 1.5-2 cm. These slices will allow for even cooking and a tender texture.

2. Frying the Meat:
- In a large skillet, add oil and heat it over medium heat. Fry each slice of meat for about a minute on each side until golden. Remove the slices from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Preparing the Sauce:
- In the remaining oil in the skillet, add the white wine, bay leaves, the whole clove of garlic (to keep it intact), and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the garlic turns golden. Remove the garlic and discard it.
- Add honey, paprika, brandy, and pineapple juice. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

4. Assembling the Dish:
- Peel the pineapple and cut it into slices of 1-1.5 cm. Place a slice of pineapple at the bottom of a deep baking dish, then a layer of meat, continuing to alternate layers until all ingredients are used. Ensure the last layer is pineapple.

5. Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C, ideally with convection, for even baking. Melt the butter in the dish and place the slices of meat and pineapple inside. Pour the previously prepared sauce over the meat, reserving half of the sauce for later.
- Using a brush, generously coat the meat and pineapple with melted butter. Bake for 25 minutes.

6. Turning and Finishing:
- Remove the dish from the oven and turn the meat over. Pour the remaining sauce over the meat and brush again with butter. Leave in the oven for another 25 minutes.

Serving:
After the dish is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the pork tenderloin with pineapple alongside a side of rice or mashed potatoes to complete the meal. A fresh green salad or a chilled white wine would be the perfect pairing.

Variations:
- You can add other tropical fruits, such as mango or papaya, to diversify the flavors.
- If you want a spicier taste, add a bit of chili pepper to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
- Yes, chicken is an excellent alternative, but the cooking time will be reduced.

2. What other side dishes are recommended?
- Wild rice or grilled vegetables would perfectly complement this dish.

3. How can I make the sauce creamier?
- Add some cream or a mixture of ricotta cheese for a richer texture.

Nutritional Benefits:
Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, and pineapple brings vitamins C and B, as well as enzymes that aid digestion. This combination offers a balance of nutrients, making it a delicious and healthy choice.

Try this pork tenderloin with pineapple recipe and transform an ordinary meal into a feast of flavors. With every bite, you will discover a perfect blend of sweet and savory, leaving you craving more. Bon appétit!