If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to impress your guests at your next barbecue, look no further than a smokin’ hot pork tenderloin. Juicy, flavorful, and tender, pork tenderloin is a cut above the rest and perfect for smoking on the grill. In this article, we’ll go over the best ways to choose, prep, smoke, and cook your pork tenderloin to perfection. So grab your apron and let’s get cookin’!
A Cut Above the Rest: Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat that comes from the loin of the pig. It’s a popular cut for grilling and smoking because it’s easy to work with and has a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and sauces. Unlike other cuts of pork, such as pork shoulder or ribs, pork tenderloin cooks quickly and evenly, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues.
Choosing the Perfect Pork Tenderloin
When selecting your pork tenderloin, look for one that is firm to the touch and evenly colored. Avoid any tenderloins that have a strong odor or are discolored. Pork tenderloins can vary in size, but a typical tenderloin weighs between 1 and 1.5 pounds. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can also smoke two tenderloins at once.
Prepping Your Pork for Smokin’ Goodness
Before you smoke your pork tenderloin, you’ll want to make sure it’s prepped and ready to go. Start by trimming off any excess fat or silver skin from the tenderloin. Then, season the tenderloin with your favorite rub or marinade. You can also let the tenderloin marinate in the fridge for a few hours to infuse even more flavor.
The Best Wood for Smoking Pork Tenderloin
When it comes to smoking pork tenderloin, you’ll want to use a wood that complements the mild flavor of the meat. Some popular choices include applewood, cherrywood, and hickory. You can also experiment with different wood combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
Smokin’ Tips and Tricks for Tenderloin Perfection
To smoke your pork tenderloin, set up your grill for indirect heat and maintain a temperature of around 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your tenderloin on the grill and smoke for 1-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. To keep your tenderloin juicy and flavorful, baste it with a mixture of apple juice and olive oil every 30 minutes or so.
Rubs and Marinades for Flavorful Pork
To add even more flavor to your pork tenderloin, try experimenting with different rubs and marinades. Some popular choices include a basic salt and pepper rub, a sweet and spicy brown sugar rub, or a tangy barbecue marinade. You can also use a meat injector to inject your marinade directly into the tenderloin for maximum flavor.
Smokin’ Good Sides for Pork Tenderloin
While your pork tenderloin is smokin’ on the grill, why not whip up some delicious sides to go with it? Some classic barbecue sides include baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread, and potato salad. You can also grill up some veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthy and tasty side dish.
Don’t Forget the Sauce: Pairing with Pork
No barbecue is complete without a delicious sauce to complement your smoked pork tenderloin. Some classic choices include a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, a spicy mustard sauce, or a zesty chimichurri sauce. You can also make your own sauce at home using your favorite ingredients.
Cooking Pork Tenderloin to Perfection
To ensure your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork tenderloin should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Once your tenderloin has reached the correct temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Resting and Slicing Your Smokin’ Hot Pork Tenderloin
Resting your pork tenderloin is crucial to keep it juicy and flavorful. Let your tenderloin rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it against the grain into 1/4 inch slices. This will ensure that your pork is tender and easy to eat.
Enjoying Your Pork Tenderloin Delight!
Now that your smokin’ hot pork tenderloin is ready to go, it’s time to dig in and enjoy! Serve your tenderloin with your favorite sides and sauces, and don’t forget to savor every bite. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make a pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy grilling!
Pork tenderloin is a delicious and easy choice for any backyard barbecue or weeknight dinner. With a little bit of prep and the right tools, you can create a smokin’ hot pork tenderloin that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different rubs, marinades, and woods to find your perfect combination. And don’t forget to enjoy every bite of your pork tenderloin delight!
