Name: Delicious Apple Cider Pork Mashed with Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Pork tenderloin (1.5 pounds): Trimmed and cut into medallions.; Apple cider (1 cup): For marinating and cooking.; Onion (1 medium): Sliced.; Garlic (3 cloves): Minced.; Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing.; Thyme (1 teaspoon): Fresh or dried.; Salt (to taste): For seasoning.; Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.; Butter (1 tablespoon): For added flavor in the sauce.; Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): For thickening the sauce (optional).; Sweet potatoes (2 large): Peeled and cubed.; Butter (2 tablespoons): For creaminess.; Heavy cream or milk (¼ cup): For smoothness.; Salt (to taste): For seasoning.; Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon): Optional, for added warmth.

Apple Cider Pork Mashed is a delightful dish that combines marinated pork tenderloin cooked in apple cider with creamy mashed sweet potatoes. This recipe not only brings the rich flavors of the pork together with the sweet tang of apple cider but also complements it with the comforting texture of mashed sweet potatoes. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish embodies the warmth of American comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Pork Mashed

This dish is a crowd-pleaser for numerous reasons. First and foremost, it offers a unique flavor profile that balances sweet and savory, making each bite a delight. The apple cider pork brings moisture and flavor to the tender meat, while the creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide a luscious texture. It’s an easy apple cider pork recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, and it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. You’ll also love how quickly it comes together, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce seasonal flavors into your meals!

Delicious Apple Cider Pork Mashed with Sweet Potatoes - Apple Cider Pork Mashed - main visual representation

Ingredients for Apple Cider Pork Mashed

Gather these items:

Pork tenderloin (1.5 pounds): Trimmed and cut into medallions.
Apple cider (1 cup): For marinating and cooking.
Onion (1 medium): Sliced.
Garlic (3 cloves): Minced.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing.
Thyme (1 teaspoon): Fresh or dried.
Salt (to taste): For seasoning.
Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
Butter (1 tablespoon): For added flavor in the sauce.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): For thickening the sauce (optional).
Sweet potatoes (2 large): Peeled and cubed.
Butter (2 tablespoons): For creaminess.
Heavy cream or milk (¼ cup): For smoothness.
Salt (to taste): For seasoning.
Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon): Optional, for added warmth.

How to Make Apple Cider Pork Mashed Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the pork medallions with ½ cup of apple cider, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor).
Step 2: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Sear the pork medallions in the hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Pour in the reserved marinade and the remaining ½ cup of apple cider. Bring to a simmer. Return the pork to the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). Optional: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened. Stir in the butter for added richness and flavor.
Step 5: Add butter, heavy cream (or milk), salt, and cinnamon to the drained sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 6: Plate the mashed sweet potatoes and top with the apple cider pork. Drizzle with the sauce from the skillet and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cider Pork Mashed

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving.
Feel free to adjust seasoning based on your preference.
Using fresh thyme enhances the flavor.
For a richer sauce, ensure to let the marinade simmer properly.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cider Pork Mashed

Pair this delicious meal with a light salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. If you’re wondering what goes well with apple cider pork, consider serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh green bean salad. It also works wonderfully alongside some crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Pork Mashed

To store your apple cider pork mashed leftovers, place the pork and sweet potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or use the microwave for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Pork Mashed

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cider Pork Mashed?

The key to perfect apple cider pork lies in the marinating process. Allowing the pork to soak in the apple cider enhances its flavor and tenderness, making each bite deliciously juicy.

Can I make Apple Cider Pork Mashed ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the pork and prepare the mashed sweet potatoes in advance. Just reheat them before serving for a quick weeknight meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cider Pork Mashed?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the pork; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. Additionally, be careful with seasoning, as the apple cider adds natural sweetness.

Variations of Apple Cider Pork Mashed You Can Try

Get creative with your apple cider-infused pork tenderloin by adding spices like rosemary or using different types of apples in the cider. You can also swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a classic pork mashed potatoes recipe, or try adding caramelized apples on top for a gourmet touch.

For more tips on cooking pork, check out this guide on preparing pork tenderloin.

For information on the health benefits of sweet potatoes, visit this article.

Lastly, if you’re interested in gluten-free recipes, you can explore this resource.