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Pork Tenderloin with Mustard Sauce: A Delightful British Dish

Pork tenderloin is a versatile and lean cut of meat that lends itself well to a variety of cooking methods and flavour profiles. When paired with a rich mustard sauce, it transforms into a dish that is not only hearty but also sophisticated, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. In this article, we will explore how to prepare pork tenderloin with mustard sauce, along with some tips and tricks to ensure your meal is an unmitigated success.

The Tenderloin: Cut of Choice

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to understand why pork tenderloin is an excellent choice for this dish. This cut, taken from the muscle that runs alongside the backbone, is extremely tender with a mild flavour. It cooks relatively quickly, making it ideal for a speedy yet elegant meal. One of the best aspects of pork tenderloin is its ability to absorb flavours, especially those found in a well-crafted sauce like mustard.

Ingredients

For the Pork Tenderloin:

• 1 kg pork tenderloin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

For the Mustard Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard (for added texture)
• 200 ml chicken stock
• 100 ml double cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.

2. Season the Meat: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with kitchen towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.

3. Sear the Pork: In a large oven-safe frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork tenderloin to the pan. Sear it on all sides until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust—approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 2: Roast the Tenderloin

1. Oven Cooking: Once seared, transfer the frying pan to the preheated oven. Roast the tenderloin for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) for medium doneness. It’s advisable to use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

2. Rest: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

Step 3: Make the Mustard Sauce

1. Prepare the Sauce: While the pork rests, you can make the mustard sauce. In the same frying pan (you can pour off excess fat if necessary), add the chicken stock, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom—this is where a lot of flavours reside.

2. Combine Ingredients: Whisk in the Dijon mustard, wholegrain mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and honey (if using). Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced.

3. Add Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the double cream and lemon juice. Continue to simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle the mustard sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

2. Accompaniments: This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or a fresh, vibrant salad, balancing the richness of the sauce perfectly.

Conclusion

Pork tenderloin with mustard sauce is a dish that showcases the wonderful flavours of pork while elevating it with a creamy, tangy sauce. It’s relatively simple to prepare, yet the flavours are complex enough to impress your guests. With this recipe, you can enjoy a taste of refined British cooking in the comfort of your own home. Whether for a casual family supper or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to delight your palate and leave your guests asking for seconds!