Braided pork tenderloin baked in the oven

Pork Tenderloin Braid in the Oven

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Discover a simple, quick, and delicious recipe that will turn an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience. The braided pork tenderloin is not only an excellent choice for a family dinner but also an elegant option for a special meal. This recipe combines simplicity with a unique appearance, making it ideal for any occasion.

Recipe History

Pork tenderloin is one of the most tender and juicy types of meat, often used in festive dishes. Braiding is a traditional technique that not only adds an artistic touch to the dish but also helps the flavors penetrate evenly. This recipe is perfect for exploring creativity in the kitchen, combining simple techniques with the rich flavors of spices.

Ingredients

- 2 pieces of pork tenderloin (approximately 500-600 g each)
- 1 packet of pork seasoning (choose a preferred mix that includes salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 100 ml of water

Ingredient Details

Pork tenderloin is a rich source of protein and contains a moderate amount of fat, making it ideal for a hearty meal. Pork seasoning is essential for adding flavor to the dish, while the oil helps maintain the meat's juiciness during baking. Water is added to create a moist environment in the oven, contributing to the even cooking of the meat.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the tenderloin: Start by cleaning the tenderloin of any membranes or excess fat. This will help achieve a more pleasant texture. After cleaning, cut it into 3 parts, leaving one end uncut to allow braiding.

2. Braiding: Here comes the creative part! Take the 3 pieces of tenderloin and gently braid them, being careful not to break them. This technique not only looks good but allows the spices to penetrate the meat.

3. Seasoning: Sprinkle the pork seasoning evenly over the entire surface of the braided tenderloin. You can also use your hands to massage the spices into the meat for an even more intense flavor.

4. Oil: Drizzle the tenderloin with oil, ensuring it is well coated. This will help create a golden and delicious crust.

5. Preparing the baking tray: Place the tenderloin in the baking tray and add 100 ml of water around it. This step is essential to maintain moisture during baking, so the meat does not dry out.

6. Covering: Cover the tray with aluminum foil. This will trap steam and help the flavors penetrate.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray in the oven. Let it bake for 45-50 minutes. It is important to check if it is cooked using a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should be about 70°C.

8. Serving: Once the tenderloin is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in juicier meat. Serve warm, alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables.

Practical Tips

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add crushed garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix.
- You can experiment with different types of oil to vary the flavor. Extra virgin olive oil will add a fruity note, while sesame oil can provide a more exotic flavor.
- If you want to impress your guests, you can serve the tenderloin with an orange sauce or a cranberry sauce for a contrast of flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, but the baking time may vary.

2. What sides can be combined with the pork tenderloin?
Roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad are excellent options. Grilled vegetables are also a healthy and delicious choice.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Pork tenderloin keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or in a pan to restore its juiciness.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, containing about 22 g of protein per 100 g. It is also rich in B vitamins, which help metabolize food and maintain a healthy nervous system. By adding vegetables as a side, you can increase your intake of fiber and essential vitamins.

Possible Variations

- You can add various vegetables to the recipe, such as onions or carrots, placing them around the tenderloin in the tray for a delicious and healthy side.
- If you like spicy dishes, you can add a bit of chili pepper to the seasoning mix.
- An interesting vegetarian option could be using tofu or seitan, braided and baked similarly.

This braided pork tenderloin recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of elegance to your table. Try it and enjoy a dish that will impress everyone!