Slow Cooker Apricot Pork Tenderloin
Excellent on brown rice. I think would be good with chicken as well.
Excellent on brown rice. I think would be good with chicken as well.
- salt to taste
- ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 1/2 pound pork tenderloin whole (2 pieces) pork tenderloin 2 to 3 pounds
- 3/4 pound carrots baby carrots (if large, cut in half lengthwise) or peeled carrots cut to similar size
- 1 large onion cut in 3/4 inch wedeges
- 1 jar apricot jam 18 ounce jar
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1/2 tablespoon dried
- 1/4 cup instant tapioca
- rice cooked brown or white to serve
- Carbohydrate 76.4277103333333 g
- Cholesterol 122.847833333333 mg
- Fat 4.91742033333333 g
- Fiber 3.14686495445271 g
- Protein 51.6861745 g
- Saturated Fat 1.40904795 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (465g)
- Sodium 297.845416666667 mg
- Sugar 73.2808453788806 g
- Trans Fat 1.0299242 g
- Calories 536 calories
Step-by-step
- Put the cut onion and carrots in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Salt and pepper the pork tenderloin and place on the vegetables.
- In a bowl, mix together the jam, mustard, chicken broth and thyme.
- Pour over the tenderloin.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 1/2 to 5 hours, until the pork tenderloin is done.
- Remove the tenderloin and let rest.
- Turn the slow cooker to high and whisk the Instant Tapioca into the liquid in the slow cooker.
- Cook on High for 1/2 hour (or longer if the onion and carrot are not soft enough).
- Slice the tenderloin 3/4 inch thick and put back in the slow cooker for 15 to 30 minutes to heat through.
- Excellent served over cooked rice.
Slow Cooker Apricot Pork Tenderloin: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and household chores, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they’re my secret weapon for stress-free, flavorful meals. This Slow Cooker Apricot Pork Tenderloin is a perfect example.
This recipe is a revelation! The tender, juicy pork is perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy apricot glaze. The subtle hint of Dijon mustard adds a depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. It's so incredibly easy to throw together in the morning, and by dinnertime, you have a restaurant-quality meal ready without lifting a finger. Seriously, the slow cooker does all the work!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While I serve it over brown rice, as suggested, it’s equally delicious with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even a simple green salad. The leftover pork can be shredded and used in tacos or sandwiches, making it a truly economical choice. I’ve also experimented with different fruit jams – peach and cherry work wonderfully as well, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your own preferences.
But it's not just about the ease and flavor; it’s also about the quality time it gives me back. While the pork simmers away happily in the slow cooker, I can focus on other tasks – spending quality time with my kids, catching up on work emails, or simply enjoying some much-needed relaxation. That extra time is invaluable, and it’s something I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Ingredients you'll need: This recipe calls for readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up even on a busy weeknight. The apricot jam adds a touch of sweetness, while the Dijon mustard brings a welcome tang. The combination is simply divine. The fresh thyme adds an aromatic complexity, elevating this simple dish to something truly special.
Tips for success: I’ve found that using a good quality pork tenderloin is crucial for achieving tender, juicy results. Ensure the pork is properly seasoned before placing it in the slow cooker. Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! Also, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the cooking liquid at the end by simmering it on high for a longer period.
Serving suggestions: While I personally adore this with brown rice, as noted, the possibilities are endless. Imagine this succulent pork tenderloin paired with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus, or served over a bed of fluffy quinoa with a side of sautéed green beans. The flavor combinations are truly limitless.
This Slow Cooker Apricot Pork Tenderloin is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simplicity and efficiency. It’s a delicious and healthy meal that requires minimal effort, freeing up precious time for the things that truly matter. In a world that often feels overwhelmingly busy, this dish is a welcome reminder that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated.
In conclusion, this recipe is a keeper. It's easy, delicious, and adaptable. It's a perfect weeknight meal for busy families and anyone looking for a hassle-free, flavorful dinner option. Give it a try; you won't regret it!
