Pork Tenderloin with Zesty Orange Sauce

Pork Tenderloin with Zesty Orange Sauce

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:

1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.

1. Sear the Pork:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the pork tenderloin to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned.

1. Roast in the Oven:

• Transfer the seared pork tenderloin to a baking dish and place it in the preheated oven.
• Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.

1. Make the Orange Sauce:

• In the same skillet used to sear the pork, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
• Pour in freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and dried thyme.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

1. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):

• If desired, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of water.
• Stir the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce and cook until thickened.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once the pork tenderloin is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Slice the pork into medallions and drizzle the orange sauce over the top.
• Garnish with fresh thyme or orange slices for an elegant presentation.
• Serve hot and savor the exquisite flavors of this delectable dish!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork for perfect doneness.
• Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the orange sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Omit honey and use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
• Serve with low-carb sides like roasted vegetables or a salad instead of rice or potatoes.

This Pork Tenderloin with Zesty Orange Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. Enjoy the succulent pork with vibrant citrus flavors for a memorable dining experience!

Source: plusdeclics.com