Grilled marinated pork muscle

Marinated Pork Tenderloin on the Grill – a simple yet flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus marinating 4-5 hours)
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes (including marinating)
Servings: 4

Imagine a warm summer evening, friends and family gathered around the grill, and the delicious aroma of marinated pork tenderloin wafting through the air. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of sophistication to your meal. Pork tenderloin is a cut of meat that requires a bit more attention to bring out its refined flavor. Marinating is the key to transforming this simple ingredient into a true delicacy.

The history of marinated pork tenderloin is closely tied to outdoor cooking traditions, where flavors develop and intensify. Marinating is not just a method of adding flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, making it perfect for grilling. Here’s how to prepare this delight step by step.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork tenderloin
- 5 tablespoons mustard (choose a quality one for an intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons soft butter (make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust according to taste)
- Salt, to taste

Step 1: Prepare the marinade paste
To start, in a bowl, combine the mustard with the soft butter. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix the two ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste. This marinade base is essential, as the mustard will provide not only flavor but also acidity, helping to tenderize the meat.

Step 2: Add the spices
Once you have a uniform paste, add thyme, oregano, and chili powder. Mix well so that all the flavors combine perfectly. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt according to your preferences. You may want to add a bit more chili powder for a spicy kick!

Step 3: Prepare the pork tenderloin
Cut the pork tenderloin into thick slices about 1-2 cm. This will allow the marinade to penetrate the meat better. Soak the slices in cold salted water for 10 minutes. This step helps clean the meat and adds subtle flavors.

Step 4: Pound the meat slices
Remove the slices from the water, pat them dry with a paper towel, and cover each piece with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound each slice, being careful not to tear them. This technique will help tenderize the meat and even out the thickness.

Step 5: Marinating
After pounding the meat, brush each piece with the prepared mustard paste. Stack the slices on top of each other in a bowl, cover them with plastic wrap, and place them in the refrigerator. Let them marinate for 4-5 hours—this will allow the flavors to develop and penetrate deep into the meat.

Step 6: Grilling
When you’re ready to cook, take the pork out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat the grill, then place the meat slices on it. Cook each piece for 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to brown evenly. The meat is done when it has a nice crust on the outside and is juicy on the inside.

Serving and suggestions
Marinated pork tenderloin on the grill is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a sauté of fresh vegetables to create a colorful and balanced meal. A crunchy green salad or a flavorful mashed potato is also an excellent accompaniment. You can add a spoonful of garlic yogurt sauce for a creamy and refreshing contrast.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g

Nutritional benefits:
Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. It is also rich in B vitamins, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism. Adding herbs and spices not only enhances flavor but also contributes antioxidants.

Possible variations:
For a more exotic marinade, you can add honey or soy sauce to the mustard mix, achieving a sweet-spicy note. Additionally, instead of mustard, you can use barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Of course! This marinade also works great with chicken or beef. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat used.

2. What other spices can I use?
Experiment with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary to add a personal touch.

3. How can I store leftover meat?
Cooked meat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat on the grill or in a pan to restore its juicy texture.

With this marinated pork tenderloin recipe, you’ll bring to the table not only a delicious dish but also a memorable culinary experience. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and share the result with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!