Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Plum Glaze?
It is a tender pork dish featuring a Chinese-style plum sauce glaze, slow-cooked to perfection for a harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors.
What cut of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of pork tenderloin, which should be patted dry before preparation.
What are the main seasonings for the pork rub?
The rub consists of a mixture of garlic salt, poultry seasoning, and ground black pepper.
How long should I marinate the pork before cooking?
After applying the seasoning rub, you should let the pork tenderloin marinate for at least 15 minutes.
What type of plum sauce is recommended?
The recipe specifically recommends using Chinese-style plum sauce for the best flavor profile.
Which wine works best for the sauce?
A Chardonnay is the recommended white wine for whisking into the plum glaze.
Why is cornstarch used in this recipe?
Cornstarch is whisked into the wine and plum sauce to help thicken the glaze as it cooks in the slow cooker.
What slow cooker setting should I use?
This recipe should be cooked on the HIGH setting for a duration of 4 hours.
How long does the pork need to cook?
The pork tenderloin requires 4 hours on HIGH in the slow cooker until it is tender and fully cooked through.
Is it necessary to rest the meat after cooking?
Yes, resting is crucial. You should let the tenderloin rest for 25-30 minutes to ensure it retains its juices.
How should the pork be sliced for serving?
For a beautiful presentation, slice the pork into 1/2-inch thick slices at an angle.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a side of fresh vegetables.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients and tags, this recipe is considered gluten-free.
Can I substitute the white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or apple juice, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How do I ensure the seasoning is even?
Generously rub the mixture over all sides of the pork to ensure an even coating before it goes into the slow cooker.
What do I do with the sauce left in the slow cooker?
The sauce should be drizzled over the hot, sliced pork tenderloin just before serving.
Can I add extra seasoning?
Yes, you can sprinkle any remaining seasoning mixture over the top of the tenderloin once it is placed in the slow cooker.
What is the texture of the finished pork?
The pork becomes incredibly tender and succulent due to the slow cooking process and the resting period.
Is this recipe suitable for dinner parties?
Absolutely. Its elegant presentation and mouthwatering taste make it perfect for dinner parties or family meals.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 primary ingredients: garlic salt, poultry seasoning, pepper, pork tenderloin, white wine, plum sauce, and cornstarch.
Can I use a different type of salt?
The recipe calls for garlic salt to add flavor, but you could use sea salt and fresh garlic if needed.
Does the plum sauce make it very sweet?
The plum sauce adds a luscious sweetness that is balanced by the savory poultry seasoning and garlic salt.
What if I don't have poultry seasoning?
You can use a blend of dried sage, thyme, and rosemary as a substitute for poultry seasoning.
Should the slow cooker be preheated?
It is not necessary to preheat the slow cooker; simply whisk the sauce ingredients inside before adding the meat.
Can I use a larger pork tenderloin?
You can use a larger cut, but you may need to increase the cooking time and adjust the amount of seasoning and sauce ingredients.
How do I know when the pork is done?
The pork is done when it is tender and has reached a safe internal temperature, usually after 4 hours on HIGH.
Why must the pork be patted dry?
Patting the pork dry helps the seasoning rub adhere better to the surface of the meat.
Is the plum sauce spicy?
No, Chinese-style plum sauce is generally sweet and fragrant rather than spicy.
Can I cook this on the LOW setting?
While the recipe specifies HIGH for 4 hours, most slow cooker recipes can be adapted to LOW for 7-8 hours.
Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently, preferably with a little extra sauce to maintain moisture.