Spiced Pork Tenderloin

[Southern Belle 2067]

1 tsp. whole cloves 3 dried bay leaves
1/2 tsp. whole black peppercorns
1 tsp. ground sage, crumbles
2 tsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 pork tenderloin, about 1 lb.
1 Tbsp. EVOO

Heat the oven to 400*F.

Finely grind the cloves, bay leaves and whole peppercorns in a spice grinder, toss with sage, sugar and salt. Pat spice mixture on all sides of the tenderloin. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tenderloin and sear on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer the meat to the oven and in a roasting pan and roast until the tenderloin internal temperature is 140* about 20 minutes. Transfer to a clean cutting board and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

TIP: Sauté fresh pears right the pan juices, add a little butter for a perfect side dish.