Pork Tenderloin In Crock Pot With Potatoes And Carrots

Pork Tenderloin in the Crock Pot: A Comforting Meal with Minimal Effort

In the heart of winter, when the snow falls and the wind howls, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to chase away the chill. For me, that meal is a savory pork tenderloin nestled in a bed of tender potatoes and carrots, all slowly simmered to perfection in my trusty crock pot. The meat becomes incredibly tender and juicy, the potatoes become soft and fluffy, and the carrots add a touch of sweetness to the dish. It’s a simple, yet satisfying meal that fills the house with an inviting aroma.

Growing up, my grandmother would often make this dish on cold winter nights. The smell of it cooking would waft through the house, tantalizing our senses and making us hungry in anticipation. I remember watching her carefully season the pork tenderloin with her secret blend of spices before placing it in the crock pot. She would then add the potatoes and carrots, careful not to overcrowd the pot, and pour in just enough liquid to cover the ingredients. Then, she would set the crock pot to low and let it work its magic for hours.

Ingredients:

• 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup peeled and cubed potatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water

Instructions:

1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
3. Place the pork tenderloin in the crock pot.
4. In a large bowl, combine the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Toss the vegetables to coat them in the seasonings.
5. Add the vegetables to the crock pot around the pork tenderloin.
6. Pour the chicken broth or water into the crock pot.
7. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork tenderloin is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
8. Remove the pork tenderloin from the crock pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve the pork tenderloin with the vegetables and any remaining cooking juices.

Tips and Expert Advice:

Here are a few tips and expert advice to help you make the most of this recipe:

• For a more flavorful pork tenderloin, marinate it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• If you don’t have a crock pot, you can cook this dish in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the pork tenderloin for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Serve the pork tenderloin with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

FAQs:

1. What is the best way to season pork tenderloin?

There are many ways to season pork tenderloin, but my favorite combination is salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. How long does it take to cook pork tenderloin in the crock pot?

It takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to cook pork tenderloin in the crock pot, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. What are some good sides to serve with pork tenderloin?

Some good sides to serve with pork tenderloin are mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a salad.

Conclusion:

Pork tenderloin in the crock pot with potatoes and carrots is a simple, yet satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold winter night. It’s easy to make, and the results are always delicious. So next time you’re looking for a comforting meal that will fill your house with an inviting aroma, give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Are you interested in more pork-related recipes? Let us know in the comments below, and we’ll be happy to share our favorites!