Indulge in the rich flavors of a French-inspired culinary masterpiece without leaving the comfort of your home with this Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin drenched in a Creamy Dijon Sauce. This dish combines the sophistication of French cooking with the simplicity of slow cooking, resulting in a succulent, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing your guests. The use of Dijon mustard not only enhances the meat’s flavor but also creates a creamy, luxurious sauce that’s utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
2 pounds pork tenderloin
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnishing
Preparation
Begin by seasoning the pork tenderloin with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin until golden brown on all sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
Slow Cook: Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker. Add chicken broth and a mixture of Dijon mustard and butter.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Make the Sauce: After cooking, transfer the tenderloin to rest. Meanwhile, blend the cooking liquid with heavy cream and flour in a saucepan, simmer until thickened, and then stir in fresh thyme.
Serve: Slice the tenderloin, ladle over the creamy Dijon sauce, and garnish with parsley if desired.
Variations & Tips:
Enhance the Flavor: Add wild mushrooms to the slow cooker for an earthy depth or a splash of white wine to the mustard mixture for complexity.
Resting is Crucial: Allowing the pork to rest before slicing ensures it remains juicy and tender.
Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use gluten-free flour for the sauce.