Why the Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Is Great For Burning Fat
When I think about healthy eating, slow cooker pork tenderloin stands out as a fantastic option for anyone looking to burn fat. It’s lean, packed with protein, and incredibly satisfying.
By using the slow cooker, I can infuse it with flavors while keeping it tender and juicy. This cooking method also allows me to avoid added fats and oils, making it a healthier choice.
Plus, the combination of soy sauce and maple syrup gives it a deliciously sweet and savory taste without the guilt. Eating this dish feels indulgent, yet it supports my goals of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
When it comes to whipping up a delicious and healthy dinner, the ingredients for the Maple Soy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin are simple yet packed with flavor. This recipe makes use of everyday items that you can easily find at your local grocery store. The combination of soy sauce and maple syrup gives this dish its signature sweet-savory profile, while the spices bring everything together beautifully.
Plus, it’s a great excuse to use that slow cooker gathering dust on your countertop. Seriously, we all have one!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 – 4 tablespoons maple syrup (no substitutes here, folks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons diced dried onions
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt or 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
Now, about those ingredients—first off, make sure you’re using real maple syrup. I once made the mistake of grabbing the cheap pancake syrup, and let’s just say my taste buds weren’t impressed.
As for the pork tenderloin, it’s the star of the show, so you’ll want to choose a nice, lean cut. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some fresh herbs or spices that you love; a dash of paprika or a sprinkle of thyme can elevate the flavors even more.
And don’t forget about portion sizes! This recipe is great for meal prep, so you can enjoy those tasty leftovers throughout the week. How great is that? Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Making Maple Soy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is as easy as pie, and trust me—if I can do it, so can you! Start with 2 lbs of pork tenderloin. You want to make sure it’s nice and lean because nobody wants a fatty piece of meat. Grab your crock pot and place that tenderloin right in there, like it’s taking a cozy nap.
Now, let’s whip up the magic sauce. In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard—yes, the kind you put on hot dogs—and between 2 to 4 tablespoons of maple syrup. Remember, no substitutes here; we want the real deal for that sweet kick. Add in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of diced dried onions, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic salt or garlic powder. Mix it all together until it’s well blended. This sauce is going to be your flavor powerhouse, and it smells divine. You might even catch yourself licking the spoon (but let’s keep that our little secret).
Now, pour that beautiful concoction over the pork tenderloin in the crock pot. Make sure it’s well-coated; we want every bite to be bursting with flavor. Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 6 hours.
This is the part where you can kick back and relax—maybe catch up on your favorite show or read a book. When the timer goes off, you’ll be greeted by the heavenly aroma of sweet and savory goodness that will have your taste buds dancing.
The best part? You just made a meal that looks and tastes like it took hours in the kitchen, when in reality, you just let your slow cooker do the hard work. How great is that?
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
Ready to shake things up with some low-carb options for your Maple Soy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin?
I love swapping out the maple syrup for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit. It keeps the flavor while cutting carbs.
For a twist, try adding soy sauce alternatives, like coconut aminos, which are lower in carbs.
You can also mix in some fresh ginger or chili flakes for an extra kick!
Finally, if you’re avoiding soy, using tamari is a great way to maintain that savory taste without the carbs.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
What could be better than a delicious, tender pork tenderloin slow-cooked to perfection? When I serve this dish, I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up all that flavorful sauce.
Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the plate. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pork beautifully.
Don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up every drop of that maple-soy goodness. Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal to a whole new level!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
Although enjoying a hearty meal is important, there are simple ways to decrease calories in the maple soy slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe without sacrificing flavor.
First, I often replace olive oil with a non-stick spray or broth to cut fat. I also use reduced-sodium soy sauce to lower sodium and calories.
For sweetness, I reduce the maple syrup to just one tablespoon or use a sugar alternative.
Ultimately, adding extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini not only boosts nutrition but also keeps the dish filling.
These tweaks let me enjoy a delicious meal while staying mindful of my calorie intake.