Balsamic Braised Pork Tenderloins with Fresh Figs Recipe

This tender and flavorful dish is the perfect blend of savory pork, sweet figs, and tangy balsamic vinegar, making it a great choice for a special meal or a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 (1 1/2 pound) pork tenderloins
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 12 fresh figs, stemmed and halved
• 1 cup chicken broth
• cup good-quality balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels and remove any silver skin if present. Season the tenderloins generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the seasoned tenderloins into the pan and brown them on all sides, about 7 to 10 minutes in total.

Step 4: Add the sliced shallots around the pork and stir for about 1 minute, allowing the shallots to soften slightly.

Step 5: Add the halved figs, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet. Once the mixture begins to bubble, sprinkle the minced rosemary evenly over everything.

Step 6: Cover the skillet and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should read 145F (63C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.

Step 7: Carefully remove the pork from the skillet using tongs and transfer it to a serving platter. Using a slotted spoon, remove the figs and arrange them around the tenderloins. Cover the pork loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Step 8: Place the skillet back on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Bring the pan juices to a boil and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce to about cup.

Step 9: Slice the pork tenderloins and drizzle the reduced sauce over the meat. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired, and serve.

Cook's Note

For best results, choose pork loins weighing between 1 and 1.5 pounds.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 307
• Total Fat: 10g (12% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (13% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 112mg (37% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 478mg (21% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g (7% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% Daily Value)
• Protein: 36g (73% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 895mg (19% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.