Pomegranate Glazed Pork Tenderloin (Print Version)

Juicy pork tenderloin with a pomegranate glaze, finished in the oven and garnished for a flavor-packed centerpiece.

# Components:

→ Pork Component

01 - 1 pork tenderloin, approximately 1.25 pounds
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Pomegranate Infusion

05 - 1 cup pomegranate juice
06 - 2 tablespoons honey
07 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
08 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
09 - 1 clove garlic, minced
10 - 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 - 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Finishing Touches

12 - 0.25 cup fresh pomegranate arils
13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Thoroughly pat the pork tenderloin dry using paper towels. Season the entire surface generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
02 - In a large, ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned pork tenderloin on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, approximately 6 minutes in total. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
03 - Reduce the skillet's heat to medium. Add the pomegranate juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, ground cinnamon, and optional red pepper flakes to the same skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring periodically, until it has reduced by half and achieved a slightly thickened consistency, about 8 to 10 minutes.
04 - Return the seared pork tenderloin to the skillet. Turn the pork to ensure it is evenly coated with the prepared glaze. Carefully transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) on a meat thermometer.
05 - Remove the pork from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle the sliced pork with any remaining glaze from the skillet.
06 - Garnish the finished dish with fresh pomegranate arils and chopped parsley just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients from any grocery store
  • Perfect for a festive occasion or cozy dinner
  • Elegant results in under one hour
  • Gluten free and crowd pleasing even for picky eaters
02 -
  • High protein and low fat for a nutritious dinner
  • The glaze can be made ahead for stress free entertaining
  • Pork tenderloin cooks quickly but needs resting for maximum juiciness
03 -
  • Rest the pork at least five minutes before slicing for maximum juiciness
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and dry results
  • Do not walk away while reducing the glaze or it can burn easily