Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Mexican Pork Tenderloin recipe is your ticket to a delicious and exciting weeknight meal. It's packed with vibrant flavors, tender juicy pork, and requires minimal cleanup – a true win-win for busy cooks. Get ready to spice up your life (and your dinner table)!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork tenderloin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Season the Pork
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Don't be shy with the spices – the more, the merrier!
Step 2: Sear the Pork
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step helps to lock in the juices and develop a delicious crust.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, and lime juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Braising the Tenderloin
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork tenderloin is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the pork tenderloin from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Meanwhile, you can thicken the sauce by increasing the heat and simmering uncovered for a few minutes.
Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it over rice, quinoa, or mashed sweet potatoes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with extra sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious, healthy, and easy Mexican Pork Tenderloin!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork tenderloin in the spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the pork. Work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes after removing the pork.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions.
- Use different types of chiles, such as ancho or chipotle, to vary the flavor profile.
- Top the finished dish with crumbled cotija cheese or a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Mexican Pork Tenderloin recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes, easy recipes for weeknights, and quick dinner ideas that the whole family will love. It's a testament to homemade cooking at its finest and a great addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!