Description
Pork tenderloin is a favorite among home cooks for its lean, tender texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. This honey garlic pork tenderloin recipe combines a sweet and savory glaze with juicy, perfectly cooked pork, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether baked, grilled, or slow-cooked, this dish is simple, flavorful, and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) pork tenderloin
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon (2g) cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- ½ teaspoon (1g) black pepper
- ½ teaspoon (1g) salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade – In a small bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. If using cornstarch, dissolve it in a tablespoon of water and add it to the mixture.
- Marinate the Pork – Trim any silver skin from the pork tenderloin. Place it in a resealable bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Cooking Options:
- Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated pork in a baking dish, pour extra marinade on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste with sauce halfway through for added flavor. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Grilled: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates, then place the pork on the grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. Let rest before slicing.
- Slow Cooker: Place the pork and marinade in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender. Slice or shred before serving.
- Serving – Slice the pork tenderloin and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
-
Do Not Overcook the Pork – Pork tenderloin is best when cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a slight pink center. Overcooking will make it dry and tough, so use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
-
Marinating Enhances Flavor – While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating for 2-4 hours allows the pork to absorb the honey garlic flavors better. If short on time, at least let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking.
-
Resting Time is Crucial – After cooking, let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins