Pork tenderloin with vegetables and rice

Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Rice: A Delicious and Colorful Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Today we will explore a delicious and quick recipe for pork tenderloin with vegetables and rice, perfect for a savory family dinner or to impress friends. This recipe harmonizes tender meat with crunchy vegetables and fluffy rice, resulting in a dish full of flavors, colors, and textures.

A Bit of History

Pork tenderloin is a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world, due to its delicate flavor and juicy texture. This recipe combines Asian influences, thanks to the use of soy sauce, with local ingredients, offering a unique culinary experience. Rice, a staple food in many cultures, perfectly complements this dish.

Ingredients You Will Need

- 1 pork tenderloin (approximately 500 g) - choose a high-quality pork loin to achieve tender and juicy meat
- 1 green onion - adds a fresh and crunchy taste
- 1 red bell pepper - not only for aesthetics but also for its natural sweetness
- Approximately 10 green bean pods - rich in vitamins and minerals
- 1/2 cup peas - adds a splash of color and a sweet taste
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce - choosing a quality soy sauce will enhance the flavors
- 5 cloves of garlic - enrich the dish with their unmistakable aroma
- Freshly ground pepper - for a touch of spice
- Chili - optional, for those who love spicier food
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch - to thicken the sauce
- 1 cup rice - make sure to have quality rice, preferably basmati or jasmine

Step by Step: Cooking Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Rice

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

Start by washing the rice well. It is essential to remove excess starch so that the rice does not become sticky. Let it drain, then bring it to a boil in salted water. Let it boil for 20 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure it does not overcook. If necessary, add water. Once cooked, cover the rice with a lid and let it rest for 10 minutes to absorb all the moisture.

Step 2: Preparing the Meat

Meanwhile, cut the pork tenderloin into small pieces, about 2-3 cm. Place the meat in a bowl and add the soy sauce and sliced garlic. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat well. In the meantime, slice the onion into rounds, the bell pepper into thin slices, and the green beans into smaller pieces.

Step 3: Cooking the Meat

In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the marinated meat and stir well until it changes color. It is important not to overcrowd the wok so that the meat browns evenly. Once the meat is cooked, remove it to a plate.

Step 4: Preparing the Vegetables

In the remaining oil in the wok, add the chopped vegetables. Let them sauté for 5-10 minutes, stirring continuously for even cooking. The vegetables should remain crunchy, retaining their vibrant color. Once the vegetables are ready, add the meat back to the wok, along with the marinade sauce.

Step 5: Thickening the Sauce

Dissolve the cornstarch in a few tablespoons of cold water and add it to the wok. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then add the freshly ground pepper and chili if you want a spicier taste. Turn off the heat, and the dish is ready!

Step 6: Serving

Serve the pork tenderloin with vegetables warm, alongside the boiled rice. You can sprinkle some finely chopped green onion on top for a fresh and appealing look. This recipe pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as jasmine tea or a dry white wine.

Practical Tips

1. Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, according to personal preferences. You can also use chicken instead of pork for a lighter option.
2. Soy Sauce: If you want a stronger flavor, opt for a salty soy sauce. If you prefer something milder, choose a light soy sauce.
3. Cooking the Rice: For added flavor, you can add a few bay leaves or a clove of garlic to the water in which you cook the rice.
4. Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch, but be careful not to make it too viscous.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Replace the pork with tofu or tempeh and use gluten-free soy sauce if necessary.
2. What other side dishes can I use? You can also serve this dish with quinoa or couscous for an alternative side dish option.
3. How long can the dish be stored? Pork tenderloin with vegetables and rice can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

This pork tenderloin with vegetables and rice recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy and delicious. I encourage you to try it and enjoy its fantastic flavors! Enjoy your meal!