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### Instructions: How to Make Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin with Cider Glaze
**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the pork tenderloin roasts perfectly while the glaze simmers.
**Step 2: Sear the Pork Tenderloin**
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper on all sides. Once the pan is hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side, until it develops a nice golden brown crust.
**Step 3: Make the Glaze**
While the pork is searing, prepare the cider glaze. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider. Bring to a simmer, then cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly. Taste the glaze and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary. You can also add a touch more maple syrup if you want it a bit sweeter.
**Step 4: Roast the Pork**
Once the pork tenderloin is seared, pour half of the glaze over the pork. Place the skillet with the pork into the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will result in a perfectly cooked, juicy pork tenderloin.
**Step 5: Finish the Glaze**
While the pork is roasting, allow the remaining glaze to simmer on the stove. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. The glaze should thicken up slightly as it cooks down.
**Step 6: Rest and Slice the Pork**
Once the pork tenderloin is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
**Step 7: Serve**
Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and drizzle with the remaining cider glaze. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired, for an extra pop of color and flavor.
### Tips for Perfect Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin with Cider Glaze
– **Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients**: For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup and fresh apple cider (not apple juice). These ingredients are key to creating a rich and flavorful glaze.
– **Don’t Overcook the Pork**: Pork tenderloin can dry out if overcooked, so be sure to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for a juicy, slightly pink center.
– **Customize the Glaze**: If you love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for some extra spice. For a deeper, more savory flavor, you can also stir in a teaspoon of soy sauce.
– **Make It a Full Meal**: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can even serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious glaze.
### Why This Recipe Works
The **Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin with Cider Glaze** is the ultimate fusion of sweet and savory. The natural sweetness of maple syrup is beautifully balanced by the tanginess of Dijon mustard and apple cider, making the glaze both rich and bright. Pork tenderloin, known for its mild flavor and tender texture, absorbs the glaze perfectly, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor without being overwhelming.
Whether you’re looking for a dinner to impress your guests or a cozy family meal, this recipe is versatile enough to shine on any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and tastes amazing. Plus, the cider glaze adds a touch of elegance, making the dish feel special while remaining approachable.
### Conclusion: A Flavorful Feast
If you’re in search of a new pork recipe that combines depth, sweetness, and a little bit of zest, look no further than **Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin with Cider Glaze**. It’s an easy, flavorful, and impressive dish that will surely become a staple in your recipe rotation. From the tender pork to the sweet and tangy glaze, every bite will leave you craving more.
Try this recipe tonight and elevate your dinner with a touch of maple and cider magic!
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