Amazing Pork Tenderloin in the Slow Cooker Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 240 minutes

This slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe is not only impressive enough to serve to guests, but its also wonderfully easy and hands-off. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a flavorful and tender dish thats perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 (2-pound) pork tenderloin
• 1 (1-ounce) envelope dry onion soup mix
• 1 cup water
• cup red wine
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Gather all the ingredients needed for the recipe.
2. Step 2: Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top.
3. Step 3: Pour the water, red wine, and soy sauce over the pork. Turn the pork to coat it in the liquid.
4. Step 4: Spread the minced garlic over the top of the pork, ensuring that as much of it stays on top as possible.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the pork with freshly ground black pepper.
6. Step 6: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on Low for 4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145F (63C).
7. Step 7: Once the pork has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. Step 8: Slice the pork tenderloin and serve with the cooking liquid from the slow cooker as au jus on the side.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

For the perfect meal, consider pairing the pork with some delicious sides. Here are a few great options:

• Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes
• Lemon Pea Salad
• Braised Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Storage Tips

Store the leftover pork tenderloin in a shallow, airtight or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze the pork for up to three months for later use.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 4g
• Carbs: 6g
• Protein: 25g

Note: The above nutritional values are based on a standard 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your specific calorie needs.

Community Tips

"Wow, I loved this roast," raves Christy Ratto-Bixby. "So yummy and easy. I layered the bottom with sliced onion and mushrooms, cooked as written, then thickened the sauce with cornstarch after removing the roast."

"Absolutely delicious," says Lorie4040. "Even better two days later. I served it with Rice-a-Roni, but had leftovers with mashed potatoes. Soooooo good."

"This is one of our favorite slow cooker recipes," shares KEK. "I use the beef-flavored onion soup. I typically serve this with mashed potatoes or stuffing, which the gravy is great with."

This slow cooker pork tenderloin is a simple yet delicious dish, offering tender meat with savory flavors that will melt in your mouth. With a touch of red wine, soy sauce, and garlic, it is an easy meal to prepare while you go about your day. Lets take a closer look at its origins, regional variations, and why this dish has become such a popular choice for home cooks.

History and Origins of Pork Tenderloin

The pork tenderloin is a cut of meat that has become a staple in American cooking, prized for its tenderness and mild flavor. The slow cooking technique, which locks in moisture and flavor, has been used for centuries, especially in traditional American kitchens. This particular recipe, which calls for slow-cooking the tenderloin with garlic, soy sauce, red wine, and onion soup mix, showcases the evolution of American comfort food. The use of the slow cooker or crockpot, popularized in the 1970s, revolutionized home cooking, allowing families to prepare meals with minimal hands-on effort.

Regional Variations

While pork tenderloin is popular throughout the United States, the flavors used to cook it can vary depending on the region. In the Midwest, for instance, slow-cooked pork is often paired with hearty root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, while in the Southern states, dishes like pulled pork feature bolder flavors, including spices like paprika, cumin, and brown sugar. This slow-cooked version, however, is often served as a simple, elegant dish with minimal fussperfect for a family dinner or even a more formal gathering.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Compared to other pork recipes like pulled pork or roast pork, the Amazing Pork Tenderloin in the Slow Cooker stands out because it focuses on preserving the integrity and tenderness of the pork. Unlike pulled pork, which involves slow cooking for many hours until the meat is easily shredded, this recipe aims for a roast-like texture while still benefiting from the slow cookers moisture-retaining capabilities. The addition of red wine and soy sauce also gives it a unique depth of flavor not commonly found in similar pork dishes, making it a special treat for those who enjoy a savory-sweet balance.

Where Its Usually Served

This dish is commonly served at home dinners, family gatherings, and even holiday meals due to its ease of preparation and comforting flavors. It is also a popular choice for casual entertaining, as it can be prepared ahead of time and served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. The slow cooker pork tenderloin is often accompanied by the cooking liquid, which turns into a flavorful au jus sauce perfect for drizzling over the meat or serving on the side.

Interesting Facts About Pork Tenderloin

• The pork tenderloin is the most tender cut of pork, which is why it is ideal for slow cooking to preserve its softness.
• Slow cookers, also known as crockpots, became popular in the 1970s as a way to simplify home cooking and make meals with less preparation time.
• The combination of soy sauce, red wine, and garlic in this recipe is inspired by classic French and Asian flavors, blending savory and umami elements.
• While pork tenderloin is leaner than other cuts of pork, it can still be quite flavorful, especially when cooked with rich seasonings and sauces.
• Its important to let the pork rest after cooking. This helps retain its juices and ensures a moist and tender texture when sliced.

With its rich flavor, simple ingredients, and easy preparation, this Amazing Pork Tenderloin in the Slow Cooker is a dish that will surely become a family favorite. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it's a recipe that brings comfort and delight to any meal.

FAQ about Amazing Pork Tenderloin in the Slow Cooker Recipe

Comments