Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients:
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2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5 pounds total)
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1/2 cup pure maple syrup (use real maple syrup for best flavor)
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1/4 cup Dijon mustard (adds tang and depth)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce (for saltiness and umami)
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (balances the sweetness)
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2 cloves garlic, minced (adds aromatics)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Maple Dijon Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
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1/2 cup maple syrup
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1/4 cup Dijon mustard
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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2 cloves of minced garlic
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Tip: Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork
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Trim any visible silver skin or excess fat from the pork tenderloins.
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Pat the pork dry with paper towels for better sauce adherence.
Step 3: Place in Slow Cooker
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Place the two pork tenderloins side by side in the slow cooker.
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Pour the prepared maple-Dijon sauce over the top, coating the pork evenly.
Optional: Turn the tenderloins once or twice during cooking to ensure even flavoring, but it’s not necessary.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
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Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.
The pork should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or higher.
Note: Cooking times can vary by slow cooker. If your model runs hot, start checking at 5.5 hours.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
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Remove the pork from the slow cooker.
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Let it rest on a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
This helps retain the juices. -
Slice the pork into 1/2-inch medallions.
Step 6: Serve with Sauce
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Spoon the remaining sauce from the slow cooker over the sliced pork.
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For extra flavor, drizzle some sauce on your plate or serve in a small gravy boat on the side.
Variations & Enhancements
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🔥 Add Spice: Mix in 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat.
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🌿 Add Herbs: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary to the sauce before cooking.
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🍯 Substitute Sweetener: Use honey in place of maple syrup for a floral sweetness.
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🧅 Add Depth: Toss in thinly sliced onions around the pork for added flavor.
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🧈 Thicker Sauce: Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer 5–10 minutes on medium heat to reduce and thicken.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this tender, sweet-savory pork with:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Roasted green beans or Brussels sprouts
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Steamed rice or quinoa
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Add crusty bread to soak up the sauce!