Savory Apple Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Savory Apple Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin. Perfectly cooked in a slow cooker, the tender pork is infused with the sweetness of apples and the tartness of fresh cranberries. The combination of apple juice and juicy Granny Smith apples creates a delicious glaze that enhances the natural savory flavor of the pork. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for gatherings, making it a great centerpiece for your holiday dinner or a cozy family meal. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a warm grain salad for a complete meal.
8
Servings
360
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Tenderloin
2 (lbs, fat trimmed)
Canola Oil
2 (tablespoons)
Apple Juice
3 (cups)
Granny Smith Apples
3 (cored and sliced)
Fresh Cranberries
1 (cup)
Salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
Black Pepper
1/2 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2
Add the pork tenderloin to the hot skillet and brown it on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3
Once browned, transfer the pork tenderloin to a slow cooker.
4
In the same skillet, add the apple juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom, and bring it to a simmer.
5
Pour the apple juice over the pork in the slow cooker.
6
Add the sliced Granny Smith apples and fresh cranberries to the slow cooker, followed by the salt and black pepper.
7
Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and cook for 6 to 8 hours, until the pork is tender and fully cooked.
8
Once done, slice the pork and serve it with the apples and cranberries on top, drizzling the juices over for added flavor.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
51g
Carbs
30g
Protein
2.25g
Fiber
162.5mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Apple Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin?
This is a savory-sweet slow cooker dish featuring tender pork tenderloin glazed with apple juice, Granny Smith apples, and fresh cranberries.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include pork tenderloin, canola oil, apple juice, Granny Smith apples, fresh cranberries, salt, and black pepper.
How long does the pork cook in the slow cooker?
The pork tenderloin should be cooked on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours until it is fully tender.
Can I use a different type of oil for browning?
Yes, you can substitute canola oil with any neutral high-smoke-point oil such as vegetable or grapeseed oil.
Why are Granny Smith apples recommended?
Granny Smith apples are preferred because their tartness balances the sweetness and they maintain their shape during long cooking times.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
While fresh cranberries provide the best tart flavor and texture, you can use dried cranberries as a substitute, though the dish will be sweeter.
Do I need to brown the pork tenderloin before slow cooking?
Yes, browning the pork in a skillet first is essential for developing flavor and achieving an appetizing color.
What temperature setting should I use on my slow cooker?
You should use the low setting to ensure the pork tenderloin becomes tender without drying out.
Is this recipe considered gluten-free?
Based on the ingredient list of pork, fruit, juice, and spices, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 360 calories per serving of this pork tenderloin.
What is the protein content of this dish?
Each serving contains 30 grams of protein.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a warm grain salad.
Can I cook this recipe on the high setting to save time?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours, though cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours is recommended for the best texture.
How should I prepare the pork tenderloin before cooking?
You should trim any excess fat from the 2 lbs of pork tenderloin before browning it in the skillet.
Is this dish suitable for holiday dinners?
Yes, the combination of apples and cranberries makes it a visually appealing and festive centerpiece for holiday meals.
Can I substitute apple juice with apple cider?
Yes, apple cider can be used as a 1:1 substitute for apple juice for a deeper, more rustic flavor.
How should the pork be served?
The pork should be sliced and served with the cooked apples and cranberries on top, with the slow cooker juices drizzled over the meat.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork and glaze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 10 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this meal?
There are 51 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Does the recipe contain added sugar?
The recipe does not list added sugar; the sweetness comes naturally from the apple juice and the Granny Smith apples.
What is the sodium content of this recipe?
There are 162.5mg of sodium per serving.
Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Yes, but pork loin is larger and denser, so it may require a longer cooking time to reach the same level of tenderness.
What size slow cooker is best for this recipe?
A 4 to 6-quart slow cooker is the ideal size for this amount of meat and fruit.
Can I add other herbs to the glaze?
Yes, adding herbs like fresh rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of cinnamon would complement the fruit flavors well.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe and do not need to be thawed before adding them to the slow cooker.
What is the texture of the apples after 8 hours?
The apples will be very soft and tender, having absorbed the savory juices from the pork.
What is the target internal temperature for the pork?
The pork tenderloin should reach an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit to be considered fully cooked.