Simple and Easy Baked Pork Muscle

Pork Tenderloin in the Oven – A Simple and Delicious Choice

If you are looking for a simple and flavorful pork tenderloin recipe, you have come to the right place. This recipe will not only impress your family and friends but will also add a touch of elegance to your dining table. Pork tenderloin is a wonderful choice due to its tender texture and versatility in preparation. I invite you to discover with me the steps to achieve a perfectly tender and flavorful pork tenderloin, truly worthy of any festive meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 1 pork tenderloin (approx. 3 kg)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- A pinch of dried basil
- 1 cup of semi-dry white or semi-dry red wine
- 1 ½ heads of garlic (one half chopped large, the other chopped finely or crushed)
- 1 cup of water
- Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Recipe History

Pork tenderloin in the oven is a classic dish, appreciated for its versatility and flavor. Over time, this recipe has been adapted in countless ways, with each culture bringing its own touch. Whether it’s a family Sunday lunch or a festive dinner, pork tenderloin has managed to remain a favorite.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the pork tenderloin well under cold water. Make sure to dry it with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust during baking.

Step 2: Preparing the sauce
In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, parsley, basil, finely chopped garlic, and olive oil. Add the white or red wine and mix well. This sauce will be used to coat the tenderloin and give it a special flavor.

Step 3: Creating flavor pockets
Make a few incisions in the tenderloin, being careful not to cut all the way through, just enough to create pockets. In these pockets, you can add the large chopped garlic, which will infuse the meat with intense flavors during baking.

Step 4: Removing excess oil
Grease a pan with a little olive oil and place the pork tenderloin in the center. Cover it with the previously prepared sauce, ensuring it reaches every corner and pocket.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the temperature is reached, place the pan with the pork tenderloin inside. Bake on low heat for one hour, then increase the temperature to medium for the last 30 minutes. It is important to frequently check the tenderloin and baste it with the sauce from the pan to prevent drying out.

Step 6: Checking for doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tenderloin. It should be around 70°C (160°F) to be considered cooked. Once you reach this point, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step is essential to allow the juices to redistribute within the meat.

Serving

To serve, slice the tenderloin thinly and arrange it on a platter. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, such as parsley, and add some grilled vegetables or mashed potatoes on the side for a complete meal.

Variations and Tips

If you want to experiment, you can add other herbs to the sauce, such as rosemary or thyme. Additionally, instead of wine, you can use orange juice for a fruity note. If you enjoy spicy flavors, add some chopped chili pepper to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use pork from another cut?
Yes, you can also use pork shoulder or loin, but the cooking time will vary.

- What are the best side dishes to serve with pork tenderloin?
Mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, or grilled vegetables are all excellent choices.

- How do I store leftover meat?
Wrap the slices of meat in aluminum foil or keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume them within 3 days.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc. It can be a healthy choice when prepared properly, having a moderate fat content. Additionally, the added garlic not only enhances the flavor but also provides antioxidant benefits.

Calories

A serving of pork tenderloin (approximately 150g) has around 280-320 calories, depending on the preparation method and added ingredients. This makes pork tenderloin a delicious but also moderate caloric choice.

I hope this pork tenderloin recipe inspires you to cook at home, bringing smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every step of the process and don’t forget to savor every bite! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: A pork muscle (mine weighed 3kg) Salt (to taste) Pepper (to taste) Parsley (two tablespoons) Basil (a pinch) Semi-dry white wine or semi-dry red wine (one cup) Garlic (1 and a half heads...half chopped coarsely and the rest finely chopped or crushed) Water (1 cup)