Discover a delicious twist on the traditional pork tenderloin with this Crockpot Balsamic Tenderloin with Brown Sugar recipe. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a decadent meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, thanks to the slow cooking process that infuses every bite with the deep, rich tastes of balsamic and brown sugar.
Slow-Cooked Balsamic Tenderloin Delight
Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free weekday dinner or a dish to impress guests at your next gathering, this crockpot tenderloin is sure to satisfy. The combination of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar creates a beautifully balanced glaze that complements the pork perfectly, while the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Serving: 4-6
Equipment: Crockpot, small saucepan, brush for glazing
Recipe: Crockpot Balsamic Tenderloin with Brown Sugar
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 teaspoon ground sage
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- ½ cup water (for cooking)
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup light balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup water (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
Directions:
- Prepare the Tenderloin: In a small bowl, mix together the sage, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Rub this seasoning blend all over the pork tenderloin.
- Set the Crockpot: Pour ½ cup of water into the crockpot and place the seasoned tenderloin inside. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, ensuring it remains tender and juicy.
- Make the Glaze: About an hour before the tenderloin is done, start preparing the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, balsamic vinegar, water, and soy sauce. Heat over medium, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens (about 4 minutes).
- Glaze the Tenderloin: Brush the tenderloin with the glaze several times during the last hour of cooking. This will create a rich, caramelized layer on the meat.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the tenderloin to a serving dish. Drizzle with the remaining glaze and serve with sides like steamed broccoli or quinoa tossed with olive oil and lemon zest for a complete meal.
This Crockpot Balsamic Tenderloin with Brown Sugar is not just easy to make but also delivers a gourmet dining experience. The slow cooker melds the flavors beautifully, making the pork incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of this delightful recipe.