| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 45 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 525 | 17g | 5.8g | 22g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 2.5g | 64g | 0.85g |
One look at this delectable dish, Pork Tenderloin with Boldo and Port Sauce, and it’s clear that it is truly a feast for the senses. This concoction marries the earthy flavors of pork tenderloin, the vibrant notes of fresh mixed fruits, and a smooth, lush port sauce that is simply out-of-this-world. If you’re wondering what gives it its unique flair, let me tell you: It’s all in the sauce! The Sauce has a splash of boldo leaves, a staple in my family’s Cuban kitchen. Their vibrant green hue and aromatic, minty flavor add a special touch that sets this recipe apart from the rest.
Why Boldo Makes a Difference
Aside from boldo leaves’ stunning flavor attributes, they also offer promising health benefits. Originating from South America, Boldo is a unique plant associated with improved digestion, liver protection, and reductions in inflammation. Incorporating boldo in our flavorful Pork Tenderloin with Boldo and Port Sauce recipe not only enhances its taste but also boosts its health-giving properties.
Perfect Pairings
Pairing a meat-based recipe like this with fruit might seem like an unusual choice. However, when you bring together pork tenderloin with the medley of apples, pears, and cranberries, you have a delightful dish that hits all the right tasting notes. I was inspired by the classic Pork Tenderloin with Pomegranate Sauce. The variety of fruit not only adds sweetness and a touch of tartness to cut through the richness of the meat, but it also brings a burst of color that make the dish visually stunning.
This innovative Pork Tenderloin with Boldo and Port Sauce recipe is perfect for a quiet dinner with loved ones or a grand celebration alike. It’s a flexible meal that would pair excellently with a crisp, green salad or a hearty vegetable roast. The choice is yours!
Whether this recipe brings you back to your family’s kitchen or whisks you away to the shores of sunny Cuba, I hope it becomes a loved addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup port wine
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped boldo leaves
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups mixed fresh fruit, such as apples, pears, and cranberries
Method
Step One
First, season the pork tenderloin generously with the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure to cover every side of the meat.
Step Two
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork tenderloin and sear until it is browned on all sides. This should take about 7-8 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the pork from the pan and set it aside.
Step Three
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Stir and cook until the onions become translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step Four
Pour in the red wine into the pan, stirring to deglaze and lift off any browned bits from the pan. Allow the wine to reduce by about half. Then add the port wine and let it reduce for a few minutes.
Step Five
Add the beef stock, Dijon mustard, and boldo leaves. Stir everything together until they are well combined and bring it to a simmer.
Step Six
In a separate bowl, mix together the water and cornstarch until combined. Pour this mixture into the pan and stir into the sauce. This will help thicken the sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step Seven
Bring the pork tenderloin back into the pan, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the pork simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is fully cooked through.
Step Eight
While the pork is simmering, melt the butter in a separate pan and add the fresh fruit. Sauté the fruit until it becomes slightly soft and the flavors start to release, about 5-7 minutes.
Step Nine
Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and slice it. Pour the sauce from the pan over the sliced pork and serve with the sautéed fruit. Enjoy your Pork Tenderloin with Boldo and Port Sauce.
