If you're looking to impress your family or guests with a dish that's as delicious as it is stunning, look no further than Almond Crusted Pork Tenderloin! This mouthwatering recipe combines the tender juiciness of pork with a crispy, nutty almond crust that will have everyone asking for seconds. In just 35 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to elevate your culinary game and leave taste buds tingling with delight. Ready to dive into the recipe that will make you the star of the dinner table? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 cup almonds, crushed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your pork tenderloin cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the pork tenderloin by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the surface. Pat it dry with paper towels to help the crust adhere better.
- In a shallow dish, combine the crushed almonds and breadcrumbs. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of both ingredients.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg and Dijon mustard until fully combined. This mixture will act as a binder for the crust.
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Dip the seasoned pork tenderloin into the egg and mustard mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Allow any excess to drip off.
- Next, roll the coated pork tenderloin in the almond and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crust adheres well. Make sure the tenderloin is evenly coated on all sides.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the almond-crusted pork tenderloin for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it is golden brown.
- Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork tenderloin for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork tenderloin rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve immediately. Enjoy your almond crusted pork tenderloin with your choice of sides!
Tips
- Choose Quality Pork: Opt for a fresh, high-quality pork tenderloin for the best flavor and texture. Look for one that is pink and firm to the touch.
- Crush Almonds Properly: For a perfect crust, crush the almonds to a fine consistency. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the pork before baking not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful golden crust that enhances the dish's visual appeal.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the pork tenderloin to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.
- Pair with Sides: This almond crusted pork tenderloin pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the almond and breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Thyme or rosemary work particularly well with pork!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
