CROCKPOT MAPLE PORK TENDERLOIN (and an award)

This recipe gets five stars for two reasons...it is totally delicious AND super simple. As a matter of fact, it is one of the best crockpot recipes that I've tried in a long time. You can not get much simpler than this: brown the pork loin, cover it with sauce and 8 hours later (my crockpot only took 6 hours) and you have fork-tender, delicious pork loin and a gravy that is amazing.

2½ pound boneless pork loin
1 cup real maple syrup (DON'T USE PANCAKE SYRUP)
4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2½ tablespoons cider vinegar
2½ tablespoons soy sauce
salt and pepper

I bought my pork loin, vacuum packed from Walmart (2½ pounds seems to be a standard size). When you open the package, there will be two long loin pieces. I cut each one into three pieces, then salted and peppered them and browned them in a little olive oil. Place the browned pieces in a wide crockpot for even cooking (as opposed to the tall ones).

In a small bowl, whisk the maple syrup (do not use pancake syrup, it is way too sweet and will ruin your pork, trust me), Dijon mustard, cider vinegar and soy sauce together. Pour over browned pork loin pieces. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours (my crockpot took only six hours). If you use a different cut of pork, you may have to use the full 8 hours. It isn't absolutely necessary, but try and turn the meat over a couple of times during the cooking process. When it is time to eat, thicken the gravy. I served this with rice and coleslaw. It also made delicious sandwiches the next day.

NOTE: If you are concerned about the maple flavor being overpowering...don't be. As a matter of fact, it is almost a background flavor, but it IS there and the meat was extremely tender and slightly sweet. This is a fantastic recipe for any special occasion. My hubby is a pineapple addict, so I'm sure the next time I make this we will try adding a little pineapple. This recipe is definitely going into my "keeper" file.

Barbara, over at Barbara Bakes sent me a Neno Award. It is an award to encourage friendships through blogging. Barbara says that she has met many new friends through blogging and it has encouraged her to be a better cook.
I totally agree with Barbara's sentiments. I am a very shy, hermit of a person. I would never have the courage to correspond with people if it weren't for my blog. My daily visits to each of your blogs has taught me that most of us have the same dreams, loves, hopes and fears. In that respect, blogging has expanded my world greatly...and I love it.

Here are the Neno Award Rules:

1. As a dedication for those who love blogging and love to encourage friendships through blogging.
2. To seek the reasons why we all love blogging.
3. Put the award in one post as soon as you receive it.
4. Don?t forget to mention the person who gives you the award.
5. Answer the award?s question by writing the reason why you love blogging.
6. Tag and distribute the award to as many people as you like.
7. Don?t forget to notify the award receivers and put their links in your post.

I am passing the Neno Award on to:

1. Anncoo's Hobby, who's perfection in cooking and photography is amazing.

2. Peggy's Pantry, who makes me feel like I've known her forever.

3. Mennonite Girls Can Cook, who inspire me daily with their talents and sense of family.