Pork tenderloin with orange sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that combines the tenderness of pork with the vibrant taste of oranges. This recipe features a perfectly seared pork tenderloin smothered in a luscious orange sauce, making it perfect for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin (approximately 1-1.5 pounds)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
- Season the Pork:
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Pork:
- Add the pork tenderloin to the skillet and sear it on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Liquid Ingredients:
- Pour in 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, the zest of 1 orange, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Stir to combine.
- Add the Seasoning:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Cook the Pork in the Sauce
- Return the Pork to the Skillet:
- Place the seared pork tenderloin back into the skillet, nestling it into the orange sauce.
- Cook the Pork:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook the pork for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Turn the pork occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry:
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth.
- Add the Slurry to the Sauce:
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside to rest. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the orange sauce and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice the Pork:
- Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions.
- Plate and Serve:
- Arrange the pork medallions on a serving platter and drizzle the orange sauce over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pork Tenderloin: Ensure the pork tenderloin is evenly sized to cook it uniformly. Trim any excess fat or silver skin before cooking.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor. If using store-bought juice, opt for one without added sugar.
- Searing: Properly sear the pork to lock in juices and create a flavorful crust.
- Resting the Pork: Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
Variations
Spicy Orange Sauce
- Add Spice:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Sauce
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary or sage to the orange sauce for an herbaceous twist.
Citrus Medley Sauce
- Combine Citrus Juices:
- Use a combination of orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice for a citrus medley sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Mashed Potatoes:
- Serve the pork tenderloin with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables:
- Pair the dish with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
- Rice or Quinoa:
- Serve the pork with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs:
- Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- Orange Slices:
- Decorate the platter with thin slices of fresh orange for an elegant presentation.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork? A: Yes, you can use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin. However, adjust the cooking time as pork loin is typically thicker and may take longer to cook.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork tenderloin and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken the sauce? A: You can use arrowroot powder or flour as an alternative thickener. Mix with water to create a slurry before adding to the sauce.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, this orange sauce pairs well with chicken or duck. Adjust the cooking time based on the meat used.
Pork tenderloin with orange sauce is a delightful dish that combines the juicy tenderness of pork with the bright, tangy flavors of orange. This recipe is perfect for both special occasions and casual dinners, offering a blend of savory and sweet that’s sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this elegant meal with your family and friends!
