Why You’ll Love this Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without overwhelming you, this Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe is a winner.
I love how easy it’s to prepare, yet the flavors are incredibly rich and satisfying. The marinade gives the pork a sweet and tangy twist, making every bite unforgettable.
Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The grilling adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish even further.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s a go-to recipe that never fails to delight my family and friends!
Ingredients of Grilled Pork Tenderloin
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal that can impress anyone, this Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s packed with flavor from a zesty marinade that contains soy sauce, bourbon, and brown sugar, making the pork tender and juicy.
Plus, it’s super easy to pull together, and most of the work is done while the meat is marinating. Trust me; even if you’ve never grilled before, this recipe will make you feel like a pro. Just think about those lovely grill marks and the sweet aroma wafting through your backyard. Yum.
Ingredients for Grilled Pork Tenderloin:
- 4 pork tenderloins
- 1 (8 ounce) bottle soy sauce
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup marinade (boiled)
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Now, let’s talk about some considerations regarding these ingredients. First off, if you’re not a bourbon fan, you can always substitute it with apple cider vinegar or even a splash of apple juice for a different twist.
Just remember, it’s all about balancing those flavors. And if you’re trying to keep it healthier, you can cut down on the brown sugar a bit without losing too much of that sweet tangy goodness.
Don’t stress too much if you don’t have apricot preserves; peach or even raspberry can work in a pinch. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—feel free to play around with the ingredients to make it your own. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Making grilled pork tenderloin is quite the adventure, and trust me, it’s easier than it sounds. First up, you’ll want to take 4 pork tenderloins and get them all cozy in a marinade. You’ll mix together 1 (8 ounce) bottle of soy sauce, 1/2 cup bourbon (or your chosen substitute), 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Stir it all up until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
Then, pop those pork tenderloins into a big zip-top bag or a bowl, pour the marinade over them, and let them chill in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time (who isn’t?), you can marinate them at room temperature for about 4 hours; just remember to flip them halfway through so every side gets that delicious flavor.
Now, once your pork has soaked up all those tasty juices, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat it to about 400 degrees, or medium heat if you’re using a charcoal grill. While that’s warming up, take out your reserved 1 cup of marinade (don’t forget this part, it’s the magic sauce for basting!). You’ll want to boil that marinade for a few minutes.
Then, stir in 1/2 cup of apricot preserves, 1/4 cup of orange marmalade, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar until everything is melted and blended. This concoction is going to help glaze your pork and make it shine like a star on the grill.
When your grill is ready, place the marinated pork tenderloins on the grates. Grill them for about 45 minutes, turning and basting with the marinade every 10 minutes. You want to keep a close eye on the temperature, aiming for that sweet spot of 170 to 180 degrees in the center.
I always find myself peeking at the meat like a kid at a candy store. It’s hard to wait, but trust me, the anticipation is worth it. Once done, let the tenderloin rest for a few minutes before slicing it into beautiful 1/4 to 1/2 inch pieces. Serve it up with that glorious glaze, and you’ll have a meal that impresses everyone—even if your cooking skills are still a work in progress. Enjoy!
Grilled Pork Tenderloin Substitutions & Variations
While the grilled pork tenderloin recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, there’s plenty of room for creativity with substitutions and variations.
You can swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. If bourbon’s not your thing, try apple cider or white wine instead. For a fruity twist, use peach preserves instead of apricot.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to enhance flavor. Finally, if you prefer a leaner cut, tenderloin can be substituted with chicken breast or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
Enjoy customizing your dish!
What to Serve with Grilled Pork Tenderloin
After you’ve customized your grilled pork tenderloin with your favorite substitutions, it’s time to contemplate what to serve alongside this flavorful dish.
I love pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad—think mixed greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, make a great side, too, adding a lovely earthiness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a sweet potato mash for a comforting option. To balance the flavors, I often serve a fruity salsa or chutney—apricot or peach works beautifully.
Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your grilled pork tenderloin turns out perfectly, I recommend checking the meat thermometer’s reading a few minutes before the suggested cooking time.
It’s essential to avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the meat. If you have any leftover marinade, use it to baste the pork every ten minutes for added flavor.
Also, let the meat rest for about five minutes before slicing; this helps retain the juices.
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different marinades or seasonings for variety.
Enjoy your delicious meal, and don’t forget to share your experience!