Craving a flavorful, tender, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This pulled tenderloin pork recipe is your answer. Forget tough, dry pork – this recipe guarantees juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork that's perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own. It's a healthy meal option, packed with protein, and surprisingly quick to make, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying homemade cooking experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pork cooks evenly and reaches the perfect internal temperature.
Sear the Pork: Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin on all sides until nicely browned – about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds incredible flavor and creates a beautiful crust.
Build the Flavor: 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. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!
Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
Bake and Shred: Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding it with two forks. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly moist and tender pork.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious pulled pork on its own, piled high on buns for mouthwatering sandwiches, or used as a filling for flavorful tacos. The possibilities are endless!
Cooking Tips for Pulled Pork Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the pork has enough space to brown properly. If necessary, sear in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This guarantees perfectly cooked pork every time. Overcooked pork is dry pork, so a thermometer is your best friend!
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the pulled pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the cooking liquid for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Pulled Pork: After shredding the pork, toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: For an even easier option, adapt this recipe for your slow cooker. Sear the pork as instructed, then transfer it to the slow cooker with all the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This pulled tenderloin pork recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy meals don't have to be complicated. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy!