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