Are you tired of bland, dry pork that leaves your taste buds begging for excitement? Get ready to transform your ordinary pork tenderloin into a culinary masterpiece with this game-changing spice marinade! Packed with smoky paprika, aromatic garlic, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this marinade is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a dish so delicious, they'll be asking for your recipe in no time!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 marinade
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, and honey. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended and create a smooth liquid base.
- Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the wet ingredients. Use a whisk or fork to mix all the spices evenly into the marinade, ensuring no dry clumps remain.
- Taste the marinade and add salt incrementally, stirring and tasting after each addition to achieve the desired seasoning level.
- Place the pork tenderloin in a large resealable plastic bag or non-reactive container, then pour the prepared marinade over the meat, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Seal the bag or container and refrigerate. For optimal flavor penetration, marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, turning the meat occasionally to distribute the marinade evenly.
- Before cooking, remove the pork from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to preparation to allow it to come to room temperature, which helps ensure more even cooking.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: Patience is key! While the recipe suggests a minimum of 2 hours, allowing the pork to marinate overnight will dramatically enhance the flavor penetration and tenderness.
- Temperature Matters: Always let the meat come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent tough, dry meat.
- Don't Oversalt: Add salt gradually and taste as you go. Remember, the soy sauce already contributes some saltiness to the marinade.
- Seal in Flavor: Use a resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive container to marinate, and make sure the meat is completely coated.
- Cooking Recommendations: For best results, grill, roast, or pan-sear the marinated pork tenderloin to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), then let it rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.
- Versatility Tip: This marinade isn't just for pork! Try it with chicken or even as a marinade for roasted vegetables for a flavor-packed side dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
