Caramelised balsamic pork with pumpkin

Caramelised balsamic pork with pumpkin offers a savory and sweet dish featuring tender pork fillets, sweet caramelised onions, and spicy chili peppers. This recipe combines these elements with roasted pumpkin for a nutritious and delicious meal.

09 Jan 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
2 pork fillets
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp vinegar
4 cups pumpkin
2 red hot chili peppers

This caramelised balsamic pork with pumpkin is a delightful dish that brings a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors to your table. The tender pork fillets are beautifully complemented by the sweetness of caramelised onions and brown sugar, the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, and the warmth of red hot chili peppers. Paired with roasted pumpkin, this recipe is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Cube the pumpkin into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red hot chili peppers.

2. Cook the Pork:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the pork fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the pork fillets to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are browned and cooked through. (The internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C for medium-rare, 160°F/71°C for medium.)
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside to rest.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Caramelize the Sauce:
- Stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar into the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Simmer the mixture for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and becomes caramelized.

5. Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the cubed pumpkin and sliced red hot chili peppers to the skillet.
- Stir well to coat the vegetables with the caramelized sauce.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin is tender and cooked through.

6. Combine and Serve:
- Slice the rested pork fillets into medallions.
- Add the sliced pork back to the skillet to reheat and coat with the sauce.
- Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and ensure the pork is warmed through.

7. Plate and Enjoy:
- Serve the caramelized balsamic pork with pumpkin hot, garnished with additional chili slices if desired for extra heat.

There you have it - a sumptuous caramelised balsamic pork with pumpkin that's sure to impress your family and friends. This dish perfectly marries succulent pork, sweet and savory caramelised elements, and the slight heat from the chili peppers, all harmoniously balanced by the roasted pumpkin. Enjoy this culinary delight, and don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and spices to make it your own!

Caramelised balsamic pork with pumpkin FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for the pork fillets?

Cook the pork fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or 160°F (71°C) for medium.

How should I store leftovers from this recipe?

Leftover caramelised balsamic pork with pumpkin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork fillets?

You can substitute pork fillets with chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the meat, ensuring it reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F/74°C for chicken).

What type of pumpkin is best for this recipe?

For best results, use sugar pumpkin or butternut squash, as they have a sweet flavor that complements the dish well. Ensure the pumpkin is cubed into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I make this recipe without chili peppers?

Yes, you can omit the red hot chili peppers if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, substitute with a pinch of red pepper flakes or use sweet bell peppers for added color without the heat.

Tips:

- Ensure that the pork fillets are at room temperature before cooking to achieve an even cook.

- Cut the pumpkin into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.

- When caramelising the onions, cook them on medium-low heat to prevent burning and achieve a deep, rich flavor.

- Taste and adjust the seasoning as per your preference, especially since the level of heat from the chili peppers can vary.

- Allow the pork to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 240kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 1.70g
Sugar 24g
Fat 9g

Caramelised balsamic pork with pumpkin