Oh my goodness, let me tell you about a recipe that has officially earned a permanent spot in my kitchen — **Pork Medallions**! This dish is a delightful blend of tender pork, aromatic herbs, and a luscious balsamic sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy! I still remember the first time I made this for my family. They gobbled it up so fast, I wondered if I had accidentally conjured up a magic spell! Seriously, it’s that good.
What truly makes this recipe special for me is how quick and easy it is to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back Sunday dinner, I can always count on these pork medallions to please everyone at the table. Pair it with a glass of red wine, and you’re in for a treat! Now, let’s dive into what you need to create this scrumptious dish.
What’s in Pork Medallions?
Pork Tenderloin: The star of the dish! It’s lean and tender, perfect for quick cooking. Trust me, you want to make sure it’s cut into 1-inch medallions for that ideal sear and flavor.
Salt and pepper: Simple yet essential, these seasonings set the stage for enhancing the flavors of the pork. Freshly ground black pepper always adds a nice kick!
Olive oil & butter: Together, they create the perfect cooking fat duo. Olive oil adds a rich flavor while butter brings that classic touch to sauté the pork perfectly.
Medium onion: Finely chopped for a sweet undertone and a bit of depth. It’s amazing how onion can transform a dish!
Garlic: Three cloves of minced garlic — because there’s never too much garlic in my world. It adds an incredible aroma and flavor that everyone loves.
Chicken broth: This helps to create a beautiful sauce that’s both savory and comforting. Feel free to use low-sodium for a healthier option.
Balsamic vinegar: Get ready for some sweet tanginess! It brings a fabulous depth to the sauce, making the pork medallions sing.
Brown sugar: Just a touch to balance out the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. It’s that sweet and savory combo we all crave!
Dried thyme & rosemary: These herbs are the perfect flavor companions for pork, making every bite taste like a cozy hug.
Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish — because we eat with our eyes first! It adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Is Pork Medallions Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only delicious but also brings some health benefits to the table.
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean, making it a great source of protein while keeping calories in check. It’s rich in B vitamins, which are fantastic for energy metabolism.
Olive oil: Packed with healthy fats, it can boost heart health when used in moderation. Plus, it gives your skin a glowing touch!
Onions and garlic: Both of these wonderful ingredients have antioxidants and can help improve your immune system. I’d say they’re the unsung heroes of the kitchen!
However, be mindful of the balsamic vinegar if you’re watching your sugar intake, as it does have a bit of sweetness. Enjoy it in moderation, and you’ll be golden!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch medallions
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Serves:** 4
How to Make Pork Medallions?
1. First things first, season those pork medallions! Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides generously.
2. Now, let’s bring out the flavors! In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once you see that shimmer, add the pork medallions in a single layer. Sear those beauties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Time for the aromatics! In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Then slide in that garlic and cook for another minute. Heaven in progress!
4. Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Don’t forget to stir in brown sugar, thyme, and rosemary. Bring it all to a simmer; just a lovely sight!
5. Return the pork medallions to the skillet, submerging them in that glorious sauce. Cover and let it simmer away for 10-15 minutes or until the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Finally, remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley for that extra flair, and serve those pork medallions warm with sauce drizzled over the top.
7. Enjoy it with a side of vegetables or on a bed of mashed potatoes for a filling meal!
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Plate
You certainly have options! If you want to keep it light, serve these pork medallions with a simple green salad. Or, if you’re feeling a bit indulgent, mashed potatoes or creamy polenta will soak up that delicious sauce perfectly. If you’re extra fancy, throw in a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. I promise it’ll impress anyone who’s lucky enough to join you at the table!
So there you have it, a recipe that’s as straightforward as it is scrumptious! I can’t wait for you to try these Pork Medallions. Once you do, drop me a comment and let me know how yours turned out! Remember, cooking is all about sharing joy and making memories, and I’d love to hear about yours! Happy cooking!
