Sweet & Spicy Blackberry Habanero Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Juicy, tender, and bursting with bold flavor, this Blackberry Habanero Pork Tenderloin Recipe balances sweet fruitiness with just the right touch of heat.
A blackberry preserve glaze infused with balsamic vinegar, cilantro, and habanero hot sauce creates a glossy finish that elevates this lean cut of pork into something extraordinary.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory. Minnesota pork tenderloin shines here as the ideal canvas for bold flavors, making each bite memorable.
Recipe Ingredients
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2 lbs. pork tenderloin, silver skin removed
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¼ cup kosher salt, plus 1 tsp.
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3 cups water
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¼ tsp. red pepper flakes
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Blackberry Habanero Glaze:
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1 tablespoon butter
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2 tablespoons minced shallots
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1 cup seedless blackberry preserves
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2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
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1 teaspoon habanero hot sauce
Blackberry Habanero Pork Tenderloin Instructions
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Brine the pork.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup kosher salt, water, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar until dissolved.
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Add pork tenderloins, cover, and refrigerate for 4–12 hours. Drain, rinse, and pat dry.
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Preheat and season.
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Rub pork with olive oil and season with 1 tsp. kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
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Make the glaze.
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In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots and cook for 1 minute.
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Stir in blackberry preserves, balsamic vinegar, cilantro, and habanero hot sauce.
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Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
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Grill the pork.
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Place pork on grill and sear for 2–3 minutes per side.
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Reduce heat to medium or move pork to indirect heat and cook for 20–25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
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Let rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
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Serve and enjoy.
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Slice pork tenderloin and spoon the blackberry habanero glaze generously over the top.
Tips For Perfect Pork Tenderloin
Brine for juiciness: Even a short brine helps keep the tenderloin moist and flavorful.
Balance the heat: Adjust the amount of habanero sauce to your spice preference.
Use indirect heat: After searing, finish the pork over indirect heat to prevent burning.
Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Habanero Pork Tenderloin Recipe
This dish combines the natural tenderness of pork tenderloin with a glaze that’s both sweet and spicy, making it a standout recipe for any occasion. The blackberry preserves add richness, while the habanero brings just the right amount of heat. It’s a flavorful, colorful, and impressive main dish that comes together with minimal effort.
Additional Tips
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Pairing Ideas: Serve this tenderloin with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the bold glaze. For a more indulgent pairing, try garlic mashed potatoes or buttered rice. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus also complements the sweet-heat flavors beautifully.
- Variations: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste. Swap the blackberry preserves for raspberry or cherry for a different fruity note. For a milder version, replace the habanero sauce with jalapeño or chipotle hot sauce. You can even use the glaze as a sauce for grilled chicken or salmon for a versatile twist.
Explore More Delicious Pork Recipes
Ready to keep the flavor going? Check out more ways to make pork the star of your next meal:
From quick weeknight dinners to weekend favorites, MN Pork has the recipes to make your menu unforgettable.
