Introduction

The Hasselback pork tenderloin is a delightful twist on a classic dish, boasting tender meat infused with flavor. This recipe brings together succulent pork, sweet carrots, and a creamy mustard sauce that perfectly complements the meal. Serve it alongside pasta for a hearty dinner that impresses every time.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Pork tenderloin: 1.2 kg
– Carrots: 400 g
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
– Pasta: 300 g
– Heavy cream: 200 ml
– Mustard: 2 tablespoons

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pork Fillet

Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Take the pork fillet and make deep cuts every 1 cm along the length of the fillet, ensuring not to cut all the way through.

Season the Fillet

Rub the pork fillet with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Carrots

Peel the carrots and cut them into thin sticks. In the same baking dish, place the carrot sticks around the pork fillet.

Roast the Dish

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the carrots are tender.

Make the Mustard Sauce

While the pork and carrots are roasting, prepare the mustard sauce. In a saucepan, combine cream, Dijon mustard, and a splash of white wine. Heat gently and stir until well combined, then season to taste.

Serve the Dish

Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the pork fillet and serve it with the roasted carrots and the mustard sauce drizzled on top.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side of pasta or fresh bread to soak up the mustard sauce.

Cooking Temperature

Make sure your oven is properly preheated to achieve the best roasting results for the pork fillet.

Resting Time

Let the pork fillet rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to retain its juices before slicing.

Alternative Vegetables

Feel free to substitute the carrots with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, depending on your preference.

Cook techniques

Hasselback Technique

Creating Hasselback style involves making thin slices along the length of the meat without cutting all the way through. This allows for even cooking and enhances flavor absorption.

Blanching Carrots

Blanching carrots entails briefly boiling them followed by plunging them into ice water. This technique preserves color, texture, and nutrients.

Reducing Sauce

Reducing a sauce involves simmering it to evaporate water, concentrating flavors, and achieving a thicker texture. This technique can intensify the overall taste profile of the dish.

Searing Meat

Searing pork before roasting creates a golden crust that enhances flavor and seals in juices, leading to a more succulent dish.

Al Dente Pasta Cooking

Cooking pasta al dente means boiling it until it’s firm to the bite. This texture is ideal for pairing with sauces, ensuring a balanced mouthfeel.

FAQ

What is the Hasselback technique used for?

The Hasselback technique is used to create an impressive presentation and allows for better flavor absorption in meats and vegetables.

Why do you blanch carrots?

Blanching carrots helps maintain their vibrant color, crunchiness, and nutritional value while making them easier to incorporate into dishes.

How do you know when a sauce is properly reduced?

A properly reduced sauce will have a thicker consistency and a more concentrated flavor, typically clinging to the back of a spoon.

What does searing do to meat?

Searing meat creates a caramelized crust, enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction, and helps retain moisture during cooking.

Why is it important to cook pasta al dente?

Cooking pasta al dente ensures it has a firm texture, which holds up better against sauces and contributes to a more satisfying dish.

Conclusion

The Hasselback pork tenderloin paired with carrots, pasta, and a mustard sauce creates a delightful and flavorful meal. This dish not only pleases the palate but also makes for an impressive presentation, perfect for dinner gatherings or special occasions. The combination of tender pork and vibrant vegetables ensures a satisfying dining experience.

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