Pork Tenderloin With Brandy
Juicy pork tenderloin medallions paired with sweet apples and a flavorful brandy sauce create an elegant, quick dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the pork tenderloin crosswise into six pieces.
- Cover each piece with waxed paper and flatten to 1/4-inch thickness using a mallet, saucepan bottom, or cleaver.
- Arrange the medallions in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Cover with waxed paper.
- Microwave on Medium-high (70%) for 4 to 5 minutes, turning over and rearranging medallions midway.
- Place the apple wedges in a two-cup glass measure.
- Add margarine and green onions; cover with plastic wrap and microwave on High for 3 minutes.
- Remove apples with a slotted spoon and add to the pork.
- Add apple juice or brandy, water, and brown sugar to the drippings in the glass measure.
- Microwave uncovered on High for 4 minutes until the sauce is slightly reduced.
- Arrange pork and apples on serving plates and spoon the sauce over the pork.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the pork tenderloin in the apple juice or brandy for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have brandy, apple cider or white wine can be a good substitute. When microwaving, ensure the pork is arranged evenly for consistent cooking. If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can briefly sear the pork in a pan after microwaving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork tenderloin with a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Green Bean-Tomato Bake for a hearty meal. A light dessert, such as a fruit sorbet, complements the flavors well. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork and apples in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to create steam.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Tenderloin With Brandy contains roughly 197 calories, with 2g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1557mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while pork is the traditional choice, you can substitute chicken breast or turkey tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time as poultry may require slightly longer in the microwave. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I use instead of apple juice or brandy?
If you're looking for alternatives, you can use white grape juice for a non-alcoholic option or a splash of white wine for a similar depth of flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will slightly differ but should still be delicious.
How do I know when the pork is cooked properly?
The best way to check if the pork is cooked is by using a meat thermometer. It should read 145°F in the thickest part of the tenderloin. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the meat is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).