Why Barbecue Pork Tenderloin Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When you’re looking to impress at your next barbecue, there’s no better choice than barbecue pork tenderloin. This cut of meat is incredibly tender and absorbs flavors beautifully, creating a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
It cooks relatively quickly, making it perfect for those busy summer days. Plus, the combination of sweet and savory flavors from the marinade elevates the taste, ensuring your guests will be raving about it long after the grill cools down.
Trust me, serving barbecue pork tenderloin won’t only satisfy their appetites but also showcase your skills as a grill master.
Ingredients of Barbecue Pork Tenderloin
When it comes to whipping up a barbecue dish that will have everyone talking, you can’t go wrong with barbecue pork tenderloin. The beauty of this recipe isn’t just in the cooking process but also in the ingredients that come together to create a flavor explosion. Think about it: tender pork, a sweet and savory marinade, and that smoky grill flavor—it’s almost like a hug on a plate. But before we fire up the grill and get cooking, let’s make sure we’ve everything we need on hand.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious barbecue pork tenderloin:
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1/2 cup dry vermouth
- 1/2 cup dark molasses
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
Now, a couple of things to contemplate when it comes to these ingredients. First off, if you’re not much of a vermouth person, don’t sweat it; you can easily substitute it with something like white wine or even apple cider vinegar for a different twist on the flavor. And while dark molasses is the star here, if you only have light molasses or even honey, those can work too, but the taste will veer ever so slightly. Just remember, marinating is key—so don’t skip that step. The longer you let that pork soak up those flavors, the better it’ll be. Seriously, your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Barbecue Pork Tenderloin
Alright, let’s get down to business and talk about how to make that mouthwatering Molasses-Glazed Barbecue Pork Tenderloin. First up, grab your 2 lbs of pork tenderloin and place them in a shallow glass pan. This is where the magic begins, as we’ll be marinating our pork to infuse it with all those delicious flavors.
In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of dry vermouth, 1/2 cup of dark molasses, and 1/2 cup of soy sauce. This concoction is the key to transforming your tenderloin into something truly special. Pour that marinade over the pork, cover it up, and let it hang out in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or overnight if you can wait. Trust me, the longer, the better—your taste buds will be singing your praises.
When you’re ready to fire up the grill, preheat it to very hot. Sear those tenderloins for about 30 seconds on each side. It’s a quick dance on the grill, but it’s essential for that perfect crust. Don’t forget to reserve the marinade; we’re going to need it later.
After searing, turn the grill down to low and start basting your tenderloins with that delicious, reserved marinade. Close the grill cover and let the magic happen for about an hour or until the internal temperature hits 170 degrees. Keep an eye on it—turning and basting every 10-15 minutes is a must. And whatever you do, resist the urge to baste right before you take it off the grill. That marinade is still raw, and we definitely don’t want to ruin all our hard work.
Once your pork is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and cover it with foil to let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is super important because it allows the juices to redistribute, making your pork juicy and tender.
While it’s resting, pour the leftover marinade into a grill-proof pan (a cast iron one works great) and bring it to a boil, then simmer for about five minutes. This will guarantee it’s safe to eat. Now, slice that tenderloin diagonally into either 1/4 or 1/2-inch pieces, depending on how fancy you’re feeling.
Serve it up on individual plates, drizzling that glorious cooked marinade over the top. Or, if you’re hosting a gathering, toss it all on one big serving platter for a family-style feast. Either way, your guests will be impressed, and you’ll be the star of the show. Who knew making barbecue could feel so rewarding?
Barbecue Pork Tenderloin Substitutions & Variations
After mastering the art of grilling that delicious Molasses-Glazed Barbecue Pork Tenderloin, you might be wondering how to shake things up a bit.
Try swapping the pork for chicken or beef tenderloin for a different flavor experience. If you’re looking to spice things up, add some hot sauce or chili powder to the marinade.
For a sweeter twist, incorporate maple syrup instead of molasses. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemary or cumin.
Each variation brings a unique flair, so don’t hesitate to get creative and find your perfect barbecue match!
What to Serve with Barbecue Pork Tenderloin
What pairs well with the rich flavors of barbecue pork tenderloin? I love serving it alongside a crisp coleslaw; the crunch and tanginess balance the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.
Roasted seasonal vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a nice earthy touch. For a starchy side, creamy potato salad or buttery cornbread works wonders.
Don’t forget a zesty barbecue sauce for dipping!
Finally, a light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette brightens the meal. These sides not only complement the tenderloin but also create a vibrant and satisfying dining experience.
Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorites!
Additional Tips & Notes
While grilling the barbecue pork tenderloin, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature to avoid overcooking. I recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs to your marinade. Also, don’t skip the resting period after grilling; it helps the juices redistribute for a more tender bite.
If you’ve got leftovers, they taste great sliced in sandwiches or salads. Finally, remember that everyone’s grill is different, so adjust cooking times as needed.
Enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite sides!