Barbecued Pork Tenderloin: A Juicy and Flavorful Grilled Favorite
Growing up, summer meant family barbecues in our backyard, where the air was filled with laughter, the smell of grilled meats, and the sound of sizzling on the grill. One dish that always stole the show was my dad’s barbecued pork tenderloin. It was juicy, flavorful, and had a special marinade that made it unforgettable. Now, every time I fire up the grill, I’m transported back to those sunny afternoons, surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories and delicious food.
What Makes It Special
This barbecued pork tenderloin recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Marinade Magic: The marinade infuses the pork with a depth of flavor that is both sweet and savory.
- Quick Cooking: Pork tenderloin cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Dish: It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from grilled vegetables to creamy coleslaw.
- Impressive Presentation: Slicing the tenderloin reveals a beautiful pink center, making it a showstopper on any table.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
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In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika to create the marinade.
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Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the marinade.
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Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the pork on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
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Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade.
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If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
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Letting the pork rest after grilling is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
What to Serve With It
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Classic potato salad
- Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- Chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?
A: Yes! While pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use pork loin or even chicken if you prefer.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the grill.
The Heart of the Dish
This barbecued pork tenderloin is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and the joy of cooking together. Each bite brings back memories of laughter and love, making it a dish I cherish deeply. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought to my family.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different marinades or sides, and let me know how it turns out. Share your experiences and any tweaks you make—I’d love to hear from you!
Barbecued Pork Tenderloin: A Juicy and Flavorful Grilled Favorite
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Olive oil for grilling
- Salt to taste
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Classic potato salad
- Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- Chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika to create the marinade.
- Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the pork on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
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