That sounds delicious! Here’s a recipe for Pork Tenderloin in BBQ Sauce with a Twist of Orange:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- Zest and juice of 1 large orange
- 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for searing)
Instructions:
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Prep the Pork Tenderloin:
- Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
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Make the Orange BBQ Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, orange zest, orange juice, honey (or brown sugar), soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning (you may want a bit more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness).
- Remove from heat and set aside.
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Sear the Pork Tenderloin:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and caramelized. This will help lock in the juices and give the pork a great texture.
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Roast the Pork:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the seared pork tenderloin to a baking dish or roasting pan. Brush generously with the orange BBQ sauce.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the pork with more sauce to build up a nice glaze.
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Rest and Serve:
- Remove the pork tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the pork into medallions, drizzle with more of the orange BBQ sauce, and serve hot!
Suggested Sides:
- Roasted vegetables (carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts)
- Coleslaw or a fresh green salad
- Mashed sweet potatoes or a rice pilaf
The addition of orange to the BBQ sauce gives a fresh and slightly tangy twist, perfectly complementing the rich flavor of the pork. Enjoy your meal!