5 Ways To Cook Stove Top Pork Tenderloin

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Pork tenderloin, a lean and tender cut of meat, is a popular choice for home cooks due to its ease of preparation and versatility in cooking methods. One of the most convenient and flavorful ways to cook pork tenderloin is on the stovetop. This method allows for a crispy crust to form on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Here are five ways to cook stovetop pork tenderloin, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile.

Understanding Pork Tenderloin

Before diving into the cooking methods, it's essential to understand the characteristics of pork tenderloin. This cut of meat comes from the loin section of the pig and is known for its tenderness and lean nature. Pork tenderloin is typically long and narrow, making it ideal for cooking methods that require quick searing and even cooking.

Choosing the Right Cut

When selecting a pork tenderloin, look for a cut that is about 1-1.5 pounds and has a uniform thickness. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the meat from becoming too dry or overcooked. You can also opt for a pre-seasoned or marinated pork tenderloin for added flavor.

Method 1: Pan-Seared Pork Tenderloin with Lemon and Herbs

This method is perfect for those who love bright and citrusy flavors. By combining lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like thyme and rosemary, you'll create a delicious and aromatic pork tenderloin.

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 sprigs of thyme
• 2 sprigs of rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Remove the pork tenderloin from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Add the lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Return the pork tenderloin to the skillet and spoon some of the lemon mixture over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Method 2: Asian-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Soy Sauce and Ginger

This method is perfect for those who love sweet and savory flavors. By combining soy sauce, honey, and ginger, you'll create a sticky and caramelized glaze that's sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 inches of ginger, grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
3. Add the vegetable oil to the skillet and sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Brush the soy sauce mixture over the pork tenderloin and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Method 3: Spicy Pork Tenderloin with Chipotle Peppers and Lime

This method is perfect for those who love spicy and smoky flavors. By combining chipotle peppers, lime juice, and cumin, you'll create a bold and flavorful pork tenderloin.

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin
• 2 chipotle peppers, diced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the chipotle peppers to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the pork tenderloin to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Remove the pork tenderloin from the skillet and set it aside.
6. Add the lime juice to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Return the pork tenderloin to the skillet and spoon some of the lime mixture over the top.
8. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Method 4: Mediterranean-Style Pork Tenderloin with Feta and Olives

This method is perfect for those who love salty and tangy flavors. By combining feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, you'll create a delicious and savory pork tenderloin.

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup pitted and sliced olives
• 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Remove the pork tenderloin from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Add the feta cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Return the pork tenderloin to the skillet and spoon some of the feta mixture over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Method 5: Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider and Mustard

This method is perfect for those who love sweet and tangy flavors. By combining apple cider, mustard, and thyme, you'll create a delicious and savory pork tenderloin.

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin
• 1/4 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 sprigs of thyme
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the skillet and sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Remove the pork tenderloin from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Add the apple cider, mustard, and thyme to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Return the pork tenderloin to the skillet and spoon some of the apple cider mixture over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

FAQs

We hope this article has inspired you to try new and delicious ways to cook pork tenderloin on the stovetop. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, these methods are sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the flavors of pork tenderloin!