Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin and Sauerkraut: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Pork tenderloin and sauerkraut is a classic combination that is both flavorful and nutritious. The tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier meal choice. When paired with sauerkraut, which is rich in vitamins and probiotics, this dish becomes a powerhouse of nutrition. In this article, we will explore how to cook pork tenderloin and sauerkraut in a crock pot, making it a convenient and delicious meal option for any day of the week.

Why Use a Crock Pot?

A crock pot, also known as a slow cooker, is a great way to cook a variety of dishes, including pork tenderloin and sauerkraut. The low heat and moisture of the crock pot make it ideal for cooking tougher cuts of meat, but it also works well for leaner cuts like the tenderloin. The benefits of using a crock pot include:

• Convenience: Simply add all the ingredients to the crock pot and let it cook while you are busy with other tasks.
• Easy to use: The crock pot is a simple appliance to use, even for those who are new to cooking.
• Nutrient retention: The low heat of the crock pot helps to retain the nutrients in the food, making it a healthy cooking option.
• Tender meat: The crock pot is great for cooking meat to tender perfection, making it fall-apart easy to shred or slice.

Choosing the Right Pork Tenderloin

When choosing a pork tenderloin, look for a lean cut of meat that is about 1-1.5 pounds in size. You can usually find pork tenderloin in the meat department of your local grocery store. When selecting a tenderloin, look for the following characteristics:

• Lean meat: Opt for a tenderloin that is labeled as “lean” or “extra lean.”
• No added solutions: Choose a tenderloin that has not been injected with any added solutions, such as sodium or water.
• Freshness: Make sure the tenderloin is fresh and has not been previously frozen.

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

Before cooking the pork tenderloin, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are the steps to follow:

• Rinse the tenderloin under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
• Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the tenderloin.
• Season the tenderloin with your desired spices and herbs.

Cooking the Pork Tenderloin and Sauerkraut in a Crock Pot

Now that we have our pork tenderloin prepared, it’s time to cook it in the crock pot with some delicious sauerkraut. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:

Ingredients:

• 1-1.5 pound pork tenderloin
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

• Add the sliced onion to the bottom of the crock pot.
• Place the pork tenderloin on top of the onion.
• Add the sauerkraut, garlic, caraway seeds, thyme, salt, and pepper around the tenderloin.
• Pour in the chicken broth.
• Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Pork Tenderloin

To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, follow these tips:

• Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer will help you determine if the tenderloin is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
• Don’t overcook: The tenderloin should be cooked until it reaches the desired temperature, but it should not be overcooked. Overcooking can make the meat dry and tough.
• Let it rest: Once the tenderloin is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

The pork tenderloin and sauerkraut can be served on its own or with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Mashed potatoes: A classic combination that pairs well with the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, make a delicious and healthy side dish.
• Rye bread: Serve the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut on top of a slice of rye bread for a hearty and flavorful sandwich.

Variations on the Recipe

While the recipe above is delicious on its own, you can also try some variations to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:

• Add some apples: Apples and pork are a classic combination. Try adding some sliced apples to the crock pot with the sauerkraut and onions.
• Use different spices: Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or coriander, to add more flavor to the dish.
• Add some potatoes: If you want to make the dish more filling, try adding some diced potatoes to the crock pot with the sauerkraut and onions.

Nutrition Information

The pork tenderloin and sauerkraut is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. Here is the nutrition information for the recipe:

Conclusion

The crock pot pork tenderloin and sauerkraut is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any day of the week. With its lean protein, low calorie count, and rich vitamin and mineral content, this dish is a great option for those looking for a healthy meal choice. By following the simple recipe above and using the tips and variations provided, you can create a mouth-watering dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

What is the best cut of pork to use for this recipe?

The best cut of pork to use for this recipe is a pork tenderloin. This cut is lean and tender, making it perfect for slow cooking in a crock pot. It’s also relatively small in size, which allows it to cook evenly and quickly. You can find pork tenderloins in most supermarkets, usually in the meat department.

When selecting a pork tenderloin, look for one that is about 1-1.5 pounds in weight. This size will fit nicely in a standard-sized crock pot and will be enough to serve 4-6 people. Make sure to trim any excess fat from the tenderloin before cooking to ensure that it cooks evenly and doesn’t become too greasy.

Can I use fresh sauerkraut instead of canned?

While it’s technically possible to use fresh sauerkraut in this recipe, it’s not recommended. Fresh sauerkraut is typically too dense and crunchy to cook evenly in a crock pot, and it may not break down as much as canned sauerkraut. Canned sauerkraut, on the other hand, is already partially cooked and has a softer texture that will break down nicely during cooking.

If you do want to use fresh sauerkraut, you’ll need to chop it finely and cook it for a longer period of time to get the desired texture. You may also need to add more liquid to the crock pot to prevent the sauerkraut from drying out. However, using canned sauerkraut is generally the easier and more convenient option.

How long does it take to cook the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut in a crock pot?

The cooking time for this recipe will depend on the size of your pork tenderloin and your personal preference for doneness. Generally, a 1-1.5 pound pork tenderloin will take about 6-8 hours to cook on low in a crock pot. If you prefer your pork to be more tender, you can cook it for 8-10 hours.

It’s also important to note that the sauerkraut will cook more quickly than the pork tenderloin. After 4-5 hours of cooking, the sauerkraut should be tender and slightly caramelized. If you prefer a crisper texture on your sauerkraut, you can cook it for a shorter period of time or add it to the crock pot later in the cooking process.

Can I add other ingredients to the crock pot with the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut?

Yes, you can definitely add other ingredients to the crock pot with the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut. Some popular options include sliced onions, bell peppers, and potatoes. You can also add some caraway seeds or juniper berries to give the dish a more traditional German flavor.

Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels accordingly based on the ingredients you add. For example, if you add potatoes, you may need to add more liquid to the crock pot to prevent them from drying out. You can also add some brown sugar or honey to balance out the flavor of the sauerkraut.

How do I serve the crock pot pork tenderloin and sauerkraut?

There are many ways to serve the crock pot pork tenderloin and sauerkraut. One popular option is to slice the pork tenderloin thinly and serve it with the sauerkraut spooned over the top. You can also serve the dish with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

If you want to get a bit fancier, you can serve the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut with some braised red cabbage or roasted Brussels sprouts. You can also add some mustard or horseradish to the dish for an extra kick of flavor.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

While this recipe is specifically designed for a crock pot, you can also make it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. If you’re using a slow cooker, simply cook the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re using an Instant Pot, cook the pork tenderloin and sauerkraut on high pressure for 30-40 minutes.

Keep in mind that the cooking time and liquid levels may vary depending on the appliance you’re using. Be sure to consult the user manual for your specific appliance to ensure that you’re using it correctly.

Can I freeze the cooked pork tenderloin and sauerkraut for later use?

Yes, you can definitely freeze the cooked pork tenderloin and sauerkraut for later use. In fact, this recipe freezes beautifully and can be reheated in the microwave or oven. To freeze the dish, simply let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

When you’re ready to reheat the dish, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. You can also freeze individual portions of the dish for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.