Lunch: Pork Tenderloin with Honeyed Butter

Pork tenderloin is juicier than most other cuts of pork and is quick-cooking and lean. Browning the meat in butter and honey before roasting gives it a hint of sweetness.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Pork Tenderloin with Honeyed Butter

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

4 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. honey
1 1/2 lb. pork tenderloin
Coarse salt
ground pepper
1/4 c. water

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a Dutch oven or ovenproof skillet, heat the butter and honey over medium heat, stirring to melt the butter. Season the pork with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and place it in the pan. Cook until the underside is lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Turn the pork, and cook until the other side is browned, about 5 minutes more. Lower the heat if the honey begins to burn.
Put the pan in the oven, and roast until the pork is just cooked through, 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer the pork to a plate.
Add water to the pan, and stir over medium heat to scrape up all the browned bits. Add any accumulated pork juices from the plate, and simmer until the sauce is reduced to about 1/2 cup. Slice the pork on the diagonal, and serve drizzled with the sauce. Looking for more quick and easy recipes? Check out our quick family-favorites, fast dinners for weeknights, and healthy recipes for less than $3 a serving.

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