This dish features lean pork tenderloins stuffed with a delightful mixture of applesauce, chopped peanuts, and aromatic fennel seed. The natural sweetness of the apples complements the savory pork, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Marinating in apple juice tenderizes the meat, ensuring a juicy result. It is an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option. The combination of textures from the smooth applesauce and crunchy peanuts adds depth to every bite. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe offers a gourmet feel without the fuss. Serve it with roasted vegetables or whole grains for a complete, nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Pork Tenderloin With Applesauce (4 Pts
Description
This dish features lean pork tenderloins stuffed with a delightful mixture of applesauce, chopped peanuts, and aromatic fennel seed. The natural sweetness of the apples complements the savory pork, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Marinating in apple juice tenderizes the meat, ensuring a juicy result. It is an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option. The combination of textures from the smooth applesauce and crunchy peanuts adds depth to every bite. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe offers a gourmet feel without the fuss. Serve it with roasted vegetables or whole grains for a complete, nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy.Ingredients
Directions
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Using a sharp knife, cut a lengthwise slit down the center of each tenderloin, almost to the bottom, to form a pocket.
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Place tenderloins in a nonmetal baking dish.
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Pour apple juice into pockets and over tenderloins; cover dish.
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Marinate in refrigerator for 2 hours.
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
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Spray a 15-inch by 10-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
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In a small bowl, combine applesauce, chopped dry-roasted peanuts, salt, fennel seed, and pepper; blend well.
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Spoon mixture into tenderloin pockets.
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Close pockets with wooden toothpicks.
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Place tenderloins in prepared pan.
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Roast for 30 minutes, until a meat thermometer registers 155 degrees.
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Remove from oven; let stand 10 minutes.
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Remove toothpicks and slice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 115.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.6g12%
- Saturated Fat 0.9g5%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1222.1mg51%
- Total Carbohydrate 9.8g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2.3g10%
- Sugars 6.2g
- Protein 4.1g9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The ingredient list includes a blank entry for "1/4 cup". Based on the directions, this refers to "chopped dry-roasted peanuts". Ensure you add this to your shopping list.
Marinating time can be reduced to 30 minutes if you are short on time, though 2 hours yields better flavor penetration.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
For a nut-free version, substitute the peanuts with finely chopped walnuts or pecans, or omit them entirely and add a pinch of cinnamon to the applesauce mixture.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145-155 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption. Letting the meat rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the pork tender.
