This Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a dinner party. Using the Instant Pot ensures the pork remains tender and juicy, while the garlic-ginger-honey glaze delivers a sweet and savory punch that pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. The sauce is thickened post-cooking for a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
4
servings5
minutes25
minutes280
kcalIngredients
1 pork tenderloin (approx. 1 lb)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon cold water
Directions
- Prepare the Pork:
– Trim any visible fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloin. If it’s too long to fit in your Instant Pot, slice it into two equal sections.
– Season the pork generously with salt and pepper on all sides. - Sear the Pork:
– Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Add olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
– Add the pork and sear for about 3 minutes per side, turning to brown all sides. Don’t rush—if it sticks, let it cook longer until it releases naturally.
– Remove the seared pork and set aside. - Deglaze and Pressure Cook:
– Pour chicken broth into the pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits—this adds depth of flavor and prevents a burn warning.
– Return the pork to the pot. Secure the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 1 minute.
– Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure manually. - Prepare the Sauce:
– While the pork is cooking, combine garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and honey in a small bowl.
– In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. - Thicken the Sauce:
– Once the lid is opened, remove the pork and set it aside to rest for 5 minutes.
– Stir both the honey mixture and cornstarch slurry into the cooking liquid.
– Switch the Instant Pot back to Sauté and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens (about 2–3 minutes). - Slice and Serve:
– Cut the pork into medallions. Return them to the pot and toss in the thickened sauce.
– If desired, simmer the slices for an additional 2–3 minutes for a firmer texture or more caramelized glaze.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Proper Searing Technique:
Searing the pork is key to locking in flavor. Make sure the pot is hot before adding the meat and avoid moving it too early. This also develops fond (browned bits), which adds umami to the sauce. - Don’t Overcook the Pork:
Pork tenderloin is a lean cut and can dry out quickly. One minute at high pressure with natural release ensures it stays moist. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), but this recipe aims for 155–160°F for a slightly firmer, medium-well texture. - Customize the Flavor:
Feel free to tweak the sauce. Add a teaspoon of sesame oil or a splash of rice vinegar for more Asian-inspired depth. Crushed red pepper flakes can provide a gentle heat if desired.
This Instant Pot Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is a perfect blend of ease, speed, and flavor. The savory-sweet sauce clings to every slice, turning a simple cut of meat into a satisfying centerpiece. It’s an excellent recipe for anyone looking to impress without stress.
