BBQ Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Pork tenderloin: A lean and tender cut of pork that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.

BBQ sauce: A tangy and sweet sauce that adds a smoky flavor to the pork.

Olive oil: Used to coat the pork and help the seasonings adhere.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

Onion powder: Provides a mild onion flavor that complements the other seasonings.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth to the seasoning mix.

When preparing pork tenderloin on the grill, it's essential to ensure even cooking. To achieve this, consider using the two-zone grilling method. Set up your grill with one side at medium-high heat and the other side at a lower temperature. Start by searing the pork tenderloin on the hot side to develop a flavorful crust, then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking. This technique helps prevent overcooking the exterior while ensuring the interior reaches the desired internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

• pork tenderloin - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean protein that can absorb flavors well, making it a suitable alternative to pork tenderloin.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor profile that can complement the dish similarly to BBQ sauce.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for cooking.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions provide a fresh and slightly sweet flavor that can replace the convenience of onion powder.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add both saltiness and umami to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder heat and a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative to black pepper.

• Allow the pork tenderloin to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the meat soggy.
• Wrap the pork tenderloin tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
• Place the wrapped pork tenderloin in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against air and moisture.
• Store the pork tenderloin in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3-4 days. This keeps the meat at a safe temperature and maintains its flavor.
• For longer storage, place the wrapped pork tenderloin in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the pork tenderloin in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and prevents bacterial growth.
• Reheat the pork tenderloin in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This helps retain moisture and flavor.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the pork tenderloin in the microwave. Place it on a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
• For added flavor, brush the pork tenderloin with additional bbq sauce before reheating. This enhances the taste and keeps the meat juicy.
• Serve the reheated pork tenderloin with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

• Oven Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Place the pork tenderloin in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  3. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  4. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the bbq sauce caramelize.

• Stovetop Method

  1. Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions for even heating.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
  3. Place the medallions in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed through.

• Microwave Method

  1. Slice the pork tenderloin into thin pieces.
  2. Place the slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Sous Vide Method

  1. Preheat your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C).
  2. Place the pork tenderloin in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable bag using the water displacement method.
  3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 45 minutes.
  4. Remove from the bag and give it a quick sear in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil for added texture.

• Air Fryer Method

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions.
  3. Place the medallions in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges.

• Grill: A cooking device that uses direct heat to cook food, perfect for achieving that smoky BBQ flavor.

• Tongs: Essential for turning the pork tenderloin on the grill without piercing the meat and losing juices.

• Basting brush: Used to apply the BBQ sauce evenly over the pork tenderloin.

• Meat thermometer: Ensures the pork tenderloin reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the pork tenderloin after it has rested.

• Knife: A sharp tool for slicing the pork tenderloin into even pieces.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Small bowl: Useful for mixing the olive oil with the spices before rubbing it onto the pork tenderloin.

Marinate in advance: Prepare the pork tenderloin with olive oil and spices the night before to save time on the day of grilling.

Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the pork reaches the perfect internal temperature quickly without overcooking.

Preheat the grill: Start preheating the grill while you prepare the pork to save time.

Brush sauce early: Apply the bbq sauce during the last few minutes of grilling to speed up the process.