Perfect Grilled Pork Tenderloin
This master grilling recipe works perfectly, no matter how you flavor the pork. Choose one of the glazes suggested for a beautiful crust, or use your own favorite dry rub, as long as it's low in salt. Be sure to buy pork tenderloins that haven't been treated or soaked in any kind of solution by the producer.
This master grilling recipe works perfectly, no matter how you flavor the pork. Choose one of the glazes suggested for a beautiful crust, or use your own favorite dry rub, as long as it's low in salt. Be sure to buy pork tenderloins that haven't been treated or soaked in any kind of solution by the producer.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cupâ kosher salt
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 2 pounds total)
- 1 recipe concentrated fruit glaze (use sweet chili g rosemary-orange glaze, curry-apple glaze, or one of your own creations)
- 1 recipe fruit salsa orange balsamic sauce, or mango chutney sauceâ for serving (optional)
- Carbohydrate 0.6372025 g
- Cholesterol 11.2125 mg
- Fat 4.25509625 g
- Fiber 0.006625 g
- Protein 0.44908125 g
- Saturated Fat 2.481441875 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (22g)
- Sodium 17.261 mg
- Sugar 0.6305775 g
- Trans Fat 0.499206875 g
- Calories 42 calories
Step-by-step
- Brine the tenderloins
- In a medium bowl, mix salt and sugar with 1 quart cool water until dissolved. Trim the tenderloins of excess fat and silverskin and submerge them in the brine; let stand about 45 minutes.
- Remove the pork from the brine, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry.
- Rub the brined tenderloins all over with the glaze and then season with the pepper. Or, season to taste with another flavoring of your choice.
- Heat a gas grill, turning all the burners to high until the grill is fully heated, 10 to 15 minutes.
- Put the pork on the hot grill grate. Close the lid and grill for 7 minutes.
- Turn the pork over, close the lid, and grill for another 6 minutes.
- Turn off the heat (keep the lid closed) and continue to cook the pork for another 5 minutes.
- At this point, an instant-read thermometer inserted into the middle of the thickest end of the tenderloin should read 145° to 150°F. (If not, close the lid and let the pork continue to roast in the residual grill heat.)
- Remove the pork from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before carving.
- Cut across the grain into 1/2-inch slices and serve immediately, with the sauce of your choice.
- To use a charcoal grill: Prepare a two-zone fire, banking all the coals to one side of the grill. Use a wire brush to clean the grill rack and then brush it lightly with oil; close the lid and wait to let the air inside the grill get hot again. Position the pork directly over the hot coals, and cook (covered), turning once, until nicely seared on both sides. Move the tenderloins to the coolest part of the grill (over no coals), close the lid, and cook for 5 minutes more. Grilling time may vary a bit, depending on how hot and consistent your fire is.
Perfect Grilled Pork Tenderloin: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pickups, homework battles, and the ever-present to-do list looming overhead. So when I stumbled upon this recipe for Perfect Grilled Pork Tenderloin, I knew I had to give it a try. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the promise of a flavorful and tender result, was too enticing to ignore. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. I’ve experimented with various glazes and dry rubs, from a classic rosemary-orange combination to a spicier sweet chili option. Each time, the result has been a succulent, perfectly cooked pork tenderloin that the entire family devours. The prep time is minimal, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The grilling process itself is straightforward, even for those who are not seasoned grill masters.
One thing I particularly appreciate about this recipe is its emphasis on using high-quality ingredients. The recommendation to purchase pork tenderloins that haven't been pre-treated ensures that you're getting the purest, most flavorful meat possible. This simple detail elevates the entire dish, resulting in a richer and more satisfying culinary experience. The brining process, while adding a few minutes to the preparation time, is crucial for achieving that perfectly juicy and tender result. It's a small investment that yields significant rewards.
Beyond its practicality, this recipe is also incredibly satisfying. The aroma of the grilling pork is enough to entice even the pickiest eaters to the table. The tenderloin's delicate flavor is beautifully complemented by the chosen glaze or dry rub, creating a symphony of taste that is both sophisticated and comforting. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze!
This recipe has become a staple in our household. It's a reliable weeknight go-to that never fails to impress. It's a testament to the fact that delicious, healthy meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner option, I highly recommend giving this Perfect Grilled Pork Tenderloin a try. You won't regret it!
Tips and Variations:
- Marinades: Experiment with different marinades to customize the flavor of your pork tenderloin. Some options include teriyaki, balsamic, or even a simple garlic and herb marinade.
- Side Dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Leftovers: Leftover pork tenderloin can be used in salads, sandwiches, or tacos. It’s equally delicious cold or reheated.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of pepper or add other spices to control the spice level.
Beyond the Grill:
While grilling is the preferred method, you can also cook this pork tenderloin in an oven or skillet. For oven-baking, simply roast the tenderloin at 375°F (190°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For skillet cooking, sear the tenderloin in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side, then reduce the heat and cook until done.
This Perfect Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and clever techniques to create something extraordinary. It’s a dinner that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. So, fire up the grill, gather your family, and prepare to savor the flavors of this remarkable dish. The taste alone is worth every moment spent in the kitchen. Enjoy!
