Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise without leaving your kitchen? This Island Pork Sweet Potato Toss is not just a meal—it's a culinary escape that promises to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine! Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned pork cubes mingling with caramelized sweet potatoes and silky onions, all infused with a warm cinnamon embrace that will make your kitchen smell absolutely irresistible.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cubed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the sweet potatoes by washing thoroughly and cutting into uniform 1-inch cubes. Aim for consistent sizing to ensure even cooking.
- Slice the large onion into thin, even rings. These will caramelize and add deep, rich flavor to the dish.
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Cut into bite-sized cubes approximately 1-inch in size, ensuring they are roughly the same dimensions as the sweet potato cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed pork, sweet potatoes, and sliced onions. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with seasoning.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure ingredients are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization and even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F, and sweet potatoes should be tender with golden edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and ensures maximum tenderness.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Pair with a light salad or rice for a complete meal.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F for optimal caramelization and even cooking.
- Moisture Management: Pat your pork tenderloin completely dry before cubing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Cutting Consistency: Cut sweet potatoes and pork into uniform 1-inch cubes to guarantee even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread ingredients in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow proper roasting and prevent steaming.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: Check that pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and enhance tenderness.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
