Apricot glazed pork medallions refer to a delectable and savory dish that combines the sweetness of apricots and the tenderness of pork. The meal is a tasty and healthy way to keep you full for an extended period as it comprises light, clean ingredients that are rich in flavor and nutrients. In this article, we will delve into the apricot glazed pork medallions recipes and discuss why it is becoming a popular dish for both family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
The ingredients needed for apricot glazed pork medallions recipe are readily available, easy to source, and economical. Some of the staple components include pork tenderloin, vegetable oil, salt, pepper, garlic, chicken broth, apricot jam, white wine, red wine vinegar, cornstarch, and parsley for garnish.
Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is arguably the most crucial ingredient for this dish. Pork tenderloin has an incredibly tender texture and excellent flavor, making it an ideal protein choice. The meat is low in fat, making it a healthy component of the meal.
Apricot Jam
Apricot jam is the main ingredient used for the sauce in this dish. This ingredient adds natural sweetness and gives the dish its signature fruity taste. Apricots are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy fruit choice.
Red Wine Vinegar
Red wine vinegar helps balance the flavors in the dish. It adds acidity to the sauce, which complements the sweetness of the apricots.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil is added to the pan to cook the pork. It has a high smoke point and does not add any flavors, making it an ideal ingredient for this recipe.
Garlic
Garlic is a versatile ingredient that adds depth and flavor to the dish. It is also known for its medicinal properties and is beneficial to digestive health.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is added to the sauce to give it a rich and savory flavor. It is a healthy ingredient rich in vitamins and minerals.
White Wine
White wine is used to deglaze the pan and incorporate additional flavors into the dish. It adds a light, bright flavor to the sauce and complements the other flavors in the dish.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce. It is a flavorless ingredient that helps bind the ingredients together.
Parsley
Parsley is used to garnish the dish, adding freshness and color to the meal. It also has a high level of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Preparation
The preparation process is simple and can be completed in under an hour.
Cooking the Pork
First, the pork is cut into medallions and seasoned with salt and pepper. The vegetable oil is then heated in a skillet, and the pork is seared for two minutes on each side until it turns golden brown. The pork medallions are then removed from the pan and set aside.
Making the Sauce
The garlic is added to the skillet and cooked until fragrant. Chicken broth is added, and the mixture is reduced. Apricot jam, white wine, and red wine vinegar are then added to the pan and simmered until the mixture thickens. Cornstarch is added to the sauce to thicken it further.
Combining
The pork medallions are then returned to the skillet and cooked until they are done. The medallions are then removed from the skillet and placed on a serving platter. The apricot sauce is then poured over the pork medallions. Finally, the dish is garnished with parsley.
Conclusion
Apricot glazed pork medallions recipes are a healthy, flavorful, and simple dish that is perfect for any occasion. The dish combines sweet and savory ingredients to create a meal that is both nutritious and delicious. With readily available ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, apricot glazed pork medallions recipes are an excellent choice for anyone looking to prepare a healthy and satisfying meal.
Apricot glazed pork medallions are a delicious and healthy dish that can be served for dinner or at any special occasion. This dish is easy to prepare, and it only takes a few minutes to cook. The recipe is simple, and it requires just a few ingredients. However, there are some helpful tips to keep in mind when making apricot glazed pork medallions. This article will provide some valuable tips to those who want to create this dish that's packed with flavors.
Tip 1: Choose the Right Cut of Pork
The first tip to consider when making apricot glazed pork medallions is to select the right cut of pork. The best choice is a lean, tender cut. Pork tenderloin is the perfect cut for making medallions. It's a lean meat that's tender and juicy when cooked correctly. When choosing pork tenderloin, look for a bright pink color that has a thin layer of fat. Also, choose a tenderloin that's roughly the same size throughout to ensure even cooking.
Tip 2: Use Fresh Apricots
The second tip to consider when making apricot glazed pork medallions is to use fresh apricots. Although canned apricots can be used, fresh apricots offer a more vibrant and tangy taste that can't be matched by canned alternatives. Look for apricots that are slightly soft but not mushy to get the most flavor out of them. They should be bright orange or golden in color, without any bruises or blemishes.
Tip 3: Make the Glaze on the Stovetop First
The third tip to consider when making apricot glazed pork medallions is to make the glaze first on the stovetop. Combine apricot preserves, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes syrupy. Making the glaze first ensures that it's ready to go when the pork medallions are cooked and ready to be glazed.
Tip 4: Prepare the Pork Medallions Properly
The fourth tip when making apricot glazed pork medallions is to prepare the pork medallions the right way. To make the medallions, slice the tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions. Then, using a meat mallet, pound each medallion to 1/2 inch thick. This will help break down the meat fibers and tenderize the pork, making it juicier and more tender. It also helps the pork to cook evenly throughout.
Tip 5: Cook the Pork Medallions on High Heat
The fifth tip when making apricot glazed pork medallions is to cook the pork medallions on high heat. Pork medallions only take a few minutes to cook and should be cooked quickly over high heat. When cooking the medallions, use a non-stick skillet or a cast-iron skillet, which heats up evenly and retains heat well. Don't overcrowd the skillet and only cook a few medallions at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan, which releases juices and prevents a good sear.
Tip 6: Glaze the Pork Medallions in the Skillet
The sixth tip when making apricot glazed pork medallions is to glaze the pork medallions in the skillet. Once the pork medallions are cooked, add the apricot glaze to the skillet and let it cook with the pork for about a minute until it begins to thicken. This not only adds more flavor but also gives the dish a nice, glossy finish.
Tip 7: Let the Pork Medallions Rest Before Serving
The seventh tip when making apricot glazed pork medallions is to let the pork medallions rest for a few minutes before serving. When cooking pork medallions, it's important to let them rest for about five minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy pork medallion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, apricot glazed pork medallions are a delightful blend of flavors that are easy to prepare and make a fantastic main dish for any special occasion. These tips will help you make a delicious and mouth-watering meal that is sure to impress and satisfy any guest's taste buds. Remember to choose the right cut of pork, use fresh apricots, make the glaze first on the stovetop, prepare the pork medallions correctly, cook them over high heat, glaze them in the skillet, and let them rest before serving. By following these simple tips, you can create a fantastic and memorable meal that everyone will love.
