Imagine a dish that combines the succulent tenderness of perfectly cooked pork with a vibrant, sweet-tangy blueberry onion sauce that will have your dinner guests begging for the recipe. This American-style Pork Tenderloin with Blueberry Onion Sauce is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever cooking techniques, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen that looks and tastes absolutely impressive.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork tenderloin from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and generously season all sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, creating a golden-brown crust.
- Transfer the seared tenderloin to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- While pork is roasting, prepare the blueberry onion sauce by sautéing sliced onions in the same skillet until soft and translucent.
- Add blueberries and balsamic vinegar to the onions, stirring and reducing the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove pork from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice the tenderloin against the grain and drizzle with the blueberry onion sauce before serving.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork tenderloin rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the meat, which helps achieve that gorgeous golden-brown crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to guarantee juicy, tender meat.
- Don't Rush the Resting: Allowing the meat to rest after cooking helps redistribute juices, keeping the tenderloin moist and flavorful.
- Cast-Iron Skillet Magic: If possible, use a cast-iron skillet for superior heat retention and a more even sear.
- Slice Against the Grain: When serving, always slice the tenderloin against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
