Perfect Tenderloin Recipe with Orange Sauce
O Tenderloin with orange sauce It is one of the most classic and sophisticated options for New Year's Eve dinners or special occasions. This dish combines the strong and slightly sweet flavor of tenderloin with the soft and refreshing acidity of orange, creating a perfect harmony on the palate. In addition to being delicious, it is easy to prepare and will delight any guest with its sophisticated presentation.
Why Choose Tenderloin in Orange Sauce?
O Tenderloin with orange sauce It is a dish that goes beyond flavor. It carries tradition, is extremely versatile and goes perfectly with side dishes such as Greek rice, farofas and salads. In addition, the orange sauce adds a special touch that transforms the tenderloin into an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Required Ingredients
Before you start preparing your Tenderloin with orange sauce, it is important to gather all the ingredients. Check out the list:
For the Tender:
- 1 small or oval tenderloin (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 tablespoon cloves (optional, for decoration)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Orange Sauce:
- Juice of 4 large oranges (about 500 ml)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (dissolved in 3 tablespoons water)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Orange zest (optional, for decoration)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Tenderloin with Orange Sauce
1. Preparing the Tender
- Remove the ham from its packaging and make shallow diamond-shaped cuts on the top. This helps the seasoning to penetrate and adds extra charm to the presentation.
- Stick cloves into the joints of the diamonds if you want a more traditional aroma.
- In a bowl, mix together the honey, mustard, brown sugar and melted butter. Brush this mixture over the ham, covering it completely.
- Place the tenderloin on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 20 minutes.
2. Preparing the Orange Sauce
- In a saucepan, heat the orange juice over medium heat.
- Add the honey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once it starts to boil, add the cornstarch dissolved in water and stir well until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and finish with orange zest, if you prefer a more citrusy touch.
3. Finishing the Dish
- After baking the ham for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush it again with the honey and mustard mixture. Return it to the oven for another 10 minutes to caramelize.
- Remove the ham from the oven, drizzle with the orange sauce and decorate with thin orange slices around the edges.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Tenderloin with Orange Sauce
- Choose Sweet Oranges: Orange juice is the key ingredient in the sauce. Opt for pear or bay oranges, which are sweeter and balance the flavor.
- Take care with the presentation: In addition to being delicious, the tenderloin should impress. Decorate it with fresh fruit or herbs to give it a sophisticated touch.
- Ideal Accompaniments: Rice with almonds, salpicão and mashed potatoes are some options that pair perfectly with the dish.
Benefits of Preparing Tenderloin at Home
Choose to make your Tenderloin with orange sauce at home has numerous advantages:
- Economy: Buying and preparing the ingredients is more cost-effective than buying a ready-made dish.
- Customization: You can adjust the flavor of the sauce, the amount of seasoning, and even add extra ingredients.
- Healthiness: Prepared at home, you control the sugar and salt content, making the dish healthier.
Fun facts about Tender
Tenderloin is one of the most traditional options for dinners and celebrations, but did you know that this delicacy has a rich and interesting history? Check out some interesting facts about tenderloin:
Symbol of Union:
More than just a dish, tenderloin is a symbol of family unity and celebration. Its presence on the table represents the desire to share special moments with those we love, making each meal a true celebration.
Historical Origin:
Tenderloin has its roots in European countries, where smoking was one of the main food preservation techniques before the invention of refrigerators. This technique not only extended the shelf life of the meat, but also added a unique flavor, which today is one of the great attractions of tenderloin.
American Influence:
Although its origins date back to Europe, tenderloin has gained worldwide popularity, especially in the United States, where it has become a classic dish at holiday parties. The recipe has been adapted to include sweet and icy touches, such as fruit-based sauces.
The Name “Tender”:
The name “tender” derives from the English word meaning “soft” or “gentle,” reflecting the unique, velvety texture of the meat after the smoking and preparation process. It is, in fact, known for its ease of slicing and its delicate flavor.
Symbol of Prosperity:
In the 1950s, tenderloin began to be associated with prosperity and celebration, mainly due to its high cost at the time. It became a prominent dish at Christmas dinners, representing luxury and generosity.
Flavor Versatility:
One of the reasons for the success of tenderloin is its versatility. Because it is a smoked and lightly salted meat, it goes perfectly with citrus, sweet or spicy sauces, such as the classic orange sauce, pineapple sauces or honey mustard.
Traditional Decoration:
The diamond-shaped cuts on the surface of the tenderloin, often decorated with cloves, have their origins in European traditions. In addition to facilitating the penetration of the seasoning, the practice adds a visual appeal that makes the dish even more special on the table.
Popularity in Brazil:
In Brazil, tenderloin became popular thanks to North American and European influences, but quickly gained local adaptations. Here, it is common to find recipes that include farofas and tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango and passion fruit as side dishes.
A Sustainable Dish:
Today, many producers are adopting more sustainable practices for producing ham, including raising pigs more ethically and using environmentally friendly smoking techniques. This means that ham can be both delicious and a conscious choice.
Tender Variants:
Although traditional tenderloin is made from pork, there are now versions made from turkey, chicken or even vegetarian options to suit different dietary preferences.
How to Store Leftover Ham in Orange Sauce
If there are any pieces left of your Tenderloin with orange sauce, you can store them and enjoy them in other meals. Here's how:
- In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply heat in the oven or microwave.
O Tenderloin with orange sauce It is the perfect choice for those looking for a sophisticated, tasty and easy-to-prepare dish. With simple ingredients and practical execution, you can transform your dinner into an unforgettable moment for the whole family. Try this recipe and surprise your guests with a dish worthy of a chef!
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