Are you craving a juicy, flavorful sandwich that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This breaded pork tenderloin sandwich recipe is a winner for weeknight dinners, weekend lunches, or even a satisfyingly quick supper. It’s a perfect blend of crispy, savory breading and tender, juicy pork, all nestled in a soft bun. This recipe is a testament to how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be, offering a tasty alternative to takeout or processed food. Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and surprisingly healthy.
Ingredients:
-
For the Pork:
- 2 (6-ounce) pork tenderloins, trimmed of silver skin
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
-
For the Sandwich:
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- Your favorite sandwich toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, etc.)
- Mayonnaise or your preferred sauce
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork:
- Prepare the pork: Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
- Season the flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Bread the pork: Dip each pork tenderloin in the milk, then dredge in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Next, press the pork into the panko bread crumbs, making sure all sides are evenly covered.
- Fry the pork: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a pinch of bread crumbs should sizzle immediately), carefully place the breaded pork tenderloins in the skillet.
- Cook the pork: Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the pork is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Drain the pork: Remove the pork from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Assembling the Sandwich:
- Slice the pork: Once rested, slice the pork tenderloins into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Assemble the sandwich: Spread your preferred sauce on the toasted buns. Add the sliced pork, your chosen toppings, and the top bun.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy breading. Cook in batches for best results.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F to avoid undercooking.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different sauces, cheeses, and vegetables to create your perfect sandwich. Try adding crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or even a spicy pepper jelly for an extra kick.
Variations:
- Spicy Pork Tenderloin: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the breading for a spicy kick.
- Italian-Style Pork Tenderloin: Use Italian seasoned bread crumbs and add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breading.
- BBQ Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: After frying, brush the pork with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This breaded pork tenderloin sandwich recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend lunch. Enjoy!