Are you looking for a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This diced pork tenderloin recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual dinner party. It’s packed with flavor, cooks quickly, and offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is your ticket to a fantastic homemade meal. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or your favorite side dish
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Pork: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until lightly browned. This step helps to seal in the juices and develop a richer flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, soy sauce, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and tender. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over cooked rice or your preferred side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork:
- Don't overcook the pork: Overcooked pork tenderloin can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Trim excess fat: Trimming excess fat from the pork tenderloin before dicing helps to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, herbs, and spices to your personal preference.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Pork: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Twist: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for the regular diced tomatoes and add some Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
- Creamy Pork: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This diced pork tenderloin recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights and a great way to enjoy healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Enjoy!