Embrace the convenience of slow cooking and the irresistible tenderness of pork tenderloin with this delectable recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin requires minimal effort yet yields maximum flavor. Infused with garlic, onion soup mix, and a savory sauce, each bite promises to melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2-lb pork tenderloin
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1 1-oz envelope dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Make small incisions in the meat and insert the sliced garlic cloves evenly throughout.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, water, beef broth, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, and ground black pepper. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Pour Over the Pork: Pour the sauce mixture over the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker, ensuring that the meat is evenly coated.
- Cook Slow and Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the tender slices of pork with the flavorful sauce spooned over the top.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding chopped vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the pork for a complete meal.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Finish on the Grill: For added flavor, you can finish the pork tenderloin on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side after it’s done cooking in the slow cooker.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: This recipe is already keto-friendly, as it’s low in carbs and high in protein. Serve the pork tenderloin with a side of keto-friendly vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
- Low-Carb Twist: Reduce the amount of onion soup mix or use a low-carb alternative to decrease the carb content of the dish. Opt for reduced-sodium beef broth and soy sauce to further lower the carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin? A: While pork loin and pork tenderloin are similar cuts of meat, they have different textures and cooking times. Pork tenderloin is leaner and more tender, while pork loin is fattier and may require longer cooking. However, you can still use pork loin in this recipe, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover cooked pork tenderloin for future use. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth? A: Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for beef broth if desired. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still complement the pork tenderloin well.
Q: Can I add other herbs and spices to the sauce? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the sauce by adding your favorite herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika for additional flavor.
Elevate your dinner game with the tantalizing taste of Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a hassle-free meal solution or a culinary enthusiast seeking to tantalize your taste buds, this recipe is a winner. With its tender pork, flavorful sauce, and effortless preparation, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the mouthwatering aroma and exquisite flavor of this delectable dish!
