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Tender Crockpot Brown Sugar Balsamic Pork Tenderloin

Tender Crockpot Brown Sugar Balsamic Pork Tenderloin - featured image
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An easy and flavorful slow-cooked pork tenderloin with a sweet and tangy brown sugar balsamic glaze, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary sprigs, optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim any silver skin or excess fat from the pork. Pat it dry with paper towels to help achieve a nice sear. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When shimmering, add the pork and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. (Optional but recommended)
  4. Place the seared pork in the crockpot. Pour the glaze mixture over it evenly. Add the 1/2 cup water or broth to the crockpot base to keep things moist.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender.
  6. Remove the pork and tent with foil to rest for 10 minutes. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer on medium heat until it thickens to a glaze consistency (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
  7. Slice the pork into 1/2-inch thick medallions, drizzle with the balsamic glaze, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Searing the pork before slow cooking adds flavor and texture but is optional. Let the meat rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Adjust glaze thickness by simmering longer or adding more brown sugar to balance flavors. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, crockpot, slow cooker, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, easy dinner, weeknight meal, tender pork

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