Pork Tenderloin

Delicious Recipe for Pork Tenderloin with Green Beans Wrapped in Smoked Ham

When it comes to refined yet simple dishes, nothing compares to a perfectly cooked pork tenderloin—tender and juicy—paired with green beans wrapped in smoked ham. This recipe is not only an excellent choice for a special dinner but also a fantastic way to impress your guests. Plus, it's easy to make, even for those with little kitchen experience. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg pork tenderloin
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
- 150 g butter
- 400 g green beans (from a jar or can)
- 200 g smoked ham, very thinly sliced
- Optional: mushroom sauce for serving

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the pork tenderloin into slices about 3 centimeters thick. This will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides of the meat slices. This spice mix will add wonderful flavor, and the paprika will give a beautiful color.

3. Tenderizing the meat: Use your palm to gently pound the meat slices. This step is not essential, but it helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking.

4. Melting the butter: In a large skillet, add the butter and heat it over medium heat. Make sure the butter melts completely and reaches an optimal temperature before adding the meat.

5. Cooking the tenderloin: When the butter is hot, add the pork tenderloin slices, ensuring they do not touch each other. Cook each slice for about 2.5 minutes on each side. It's important not to overcook them, as we want the inside to remain pink, tender, and juicy.

6. Transferring to the oven: Once the meat slices are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them in a baking dish. Preheat the oven to 120 degrees Celsius and let the meat rest for 15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender.

Preparing the Green Beans Wrapped in Ham

1. Preparing the beans: If you're using jarred or canned green beans, be sure to drain them well and rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt.

2. Wrapping in ham: Use the slices of smoked ham to wrap the green beans. You can do this with 2-3 beans at a time, wrapping them with ham. Place them on a baking tray.

3. Heating the beans: Put the tray with the beans in the oven alongside the pork tenderloin for about 10-15 minutes, until the ham becomes slightly crispy and the beans are heated through.

Serving

Once everything is ready, carefully remove the pork tenderloin and green beans from the oven. Arrange the meat slices on a platter and place the ham-wrapped beans next to them. If desired, you can add a previously prepared mushroom sauce to complete the meal. This will add a touch of richness and make the dish even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Additionally, a bottle of white or red wine, depending on your preferences, will perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and Tricks

- Choosing the meat: When selecting the pork tenderloin, look for a piece with a bit of fat to ensure juiciness. Higher quality meat will taste better.
- Perfect cooking: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork tenderloin should reach about 63-68 degrees Celsius to be considered cooked but still juicy.
- Variations: You can experiment with different spices to give the pork tenderloin a different flavor. For example, add garlic powder or herbs to change the flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of protein, containing about 26 grams of protein per 100 grams. It is also a lean meat, meaning it is lower in saturated fats compared to other types of meat. Green beans enhance the intake of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the pork tenderloin with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.

2. What sauce pairs best?
A mushroom sauce or a white wine sauce are excellent choices to complement this dish.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or skillet to maintain juiciness.

In conclusion, this recipe for pork tenderloin with green beans wrapped in smoked ham is not only simple and quick but also full of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Feel free to explore variations and personalize the recipe to your liking. Enjoy your meal!