Pork Fillet with Cauliflower and Apricots

This delightful dish combines the tenderness of pork fillet with the sweetness of apricots and the earthiness of cauliflower. It's a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion with friends. The flavors are enhanced by a lovely mustard and rosemary coating, adding depth and aroma to the meal. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also offers a wonderful blend of textures—from the succulent fillet to the slightly crunchy cauliflower. With a hint of maple syrup or honey, each bite is a harmonious balance of savory and sweet. Plus, it's relatively simple to prepare, making it accessible for home cooks. The aromatic ingredients infuse throughout the dish, leaving a mesmerizing scent in your kitchen. Enjoy this recipe as it provides a nutritious yet indulgent experience. The cozy warmth and fragrant scents are particularly inviting on a cool evening.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pork fillet (serves 4)
• 1 cauliflower, divided into florets
• 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped (about 5 pieces)

Spices and Sauces:

• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 50 minutes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 210°C (410°F).
2. Prepare the Mustard Mix: Combine the mustard and chopped rosemary in a small bowl. This mixture will serve as a flavorful topping for the pork fillet.
3. Season the Cauliflower: In a large bowl, mix the cauliflower florets with chopped apricots, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure the ingredients are well-coated for even roasting.
4. Add Sweetness: Drizzle the maple syrup or honey over the cauliflower mixture to add a touch of caramel sweetness.
5. Sear the Cauliflower: Heat a frying pan and add the cauliflower mixture. Sauté briefly, allowing the maple syrup or honey to caramelize and develop a rich flavor. Stir frequently.
6. Deglaze the Pan: After removing the cauliflower, pour 1 tablespoon of water into the hot pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits, enhancing the taste.
7. Bake the Pork Fillet: Place the pork fillet over the cauliflower in a baking dish. Coat the fillet with the mustard and rosemary mixture.
8. Roast in the Oven: Transfer the dish to the oven and roast for about 20 minutes. This gives the pork a juicy center with a slightly crispy exterior.
9. Let It Rest: Once cooked, remove the pork fillet from the oven and cover it with foil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
10. Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the pork fillet, and return it to the baking dish with its juices. Divide the meal into four plates.
11. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with extra rosemary or cracked pepper for added aroma.
12. Bon Appétit: Sit back, serve, and enjoy this delectable dish.

Tips

• Substitutions: Swap apricots for dried plums or figs for a different sweet profile.
• Herbs: Use thyme or sage if rosemary isn't available.
• Pan Glazing: Add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan for extra flavor depth.
• Texture: For added crunch, sprinkle toasted nuts over the dish before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the pork and increase the amount of cauliflower, adding tofu or tempeh.
• Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cauliflower mixture for a little heat.
• Lower Carb: Substitute the apricots with low-carb alternatives like chopped fresh herbs or nuts.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light green salad with a vinegar-based dressing.
• Add a side of roasted potatoes or quinoa for a more filling meal.
• Serve with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a citrus twist.

Best Places

1. La Petite Maison - A charming restaurant known for its exquisite French cuisine, including tender pork dishes. Location: 54 Brooks Mews, London, UK.
2. The Pork Palate - Specializes in creative pork dishes with a focus on quality ingredients. Location: 2333 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
3. Edelweiss Restaurant - Offers a hearty menu featuring cauliflower and various pork delicacies. Location: 34 West 29th St, New York, NY, USA.
4. Bistro Laurent - Renowned for its innovative use of pork fillet and seasonal produce. Location: 800 14th St, Paso Robles, CA, USA.
5. Porcini - Combines Italian-style dishes with local flavors, focusing on pork and apricot. Location: 1411 S Ohlman St, Mitchell, SD, USA.
6. The Golden Pig - Celebrates pork in all forms with a creative twist. Location: 123 King St, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
7. Vegetable & Swine - A plant-forward eatery that highlights pork as a special feature. Location: 58 Rue de Charonne, Paris, France.
8. Sauté & Swirl - Known for its fresh approach to cooking, emphasizing quality pork recipes. Location: 428 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON, Canada.
9. Rustic Fork - Blends rustic charm with gourmet pork offerings in an inviting atmosphere. Location: 456 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY, USA.
10. Boar’s Tusk - Features a wide range of savory pork dishes fused with international influences. Location: 23 Savage Rd, Charlton, MA, USA.