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Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin with Cider Glaze: A Sweet and Savory Delight
If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, look no further than this Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin with Cider Glaze. The combination of juicy, tender pork with the rich maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, and apple cider glaze creates a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin offers a sophisticated, yet simple meal. The pork tenderloin itself is lean, making it a healthier choice, but it doesn’t skimp on flavor. The Maple Dijon marinade infuses the meat with a subtle sweetness from the maple syrup, combined with the mustard’s tang, which pairs beautifully with the richness of the cider glaze. As the pork roasts, it gets perfectly caramelized on the outside while staying incredibly juicy on the inside.
This dish is quick to prepare and features ingredients that are easy to find, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a dinner party for friends.
The Ingredients
To make the Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin with Cider Glaze, you will need:
- Pork Tenderloin: The star of the dish. This lean cut is perfect for absorbing the flavors of the marinade while staying tender and juicy.
- Maple Syrup: The natural sweetness of maple syrup adds depth to the sauce and glaze, making the dish rich and flavorful.
- Dijon Mustard: This gives the pork a tangy kick and balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Apple Cider: This adds a refreshing, fruity note that perfectly complements the pork and the maple syrup in the glaze.
- Garlic: For extra flavor and aromatic richness.
- Thyme or Rosemary: These herbs bring an earthy flavor to balance the sweetness and tang of the glaze.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5-2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Pork: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel and season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Make the Maple Dijon Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Pour this marinade over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly. Let the pork marinate for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
