Pork loin, also known as pork tenderloin, is a piece of meat taken from near the pork rib. Small loins cook relatively quickly and can be cooked on the grill or in the oven. Discover the best way to cook pork loin.
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Part 1 of 5: Preparation
Step 1. Purchase a meat thermometer
While there are general guidelines for how long to cook pork loin, the best way to avoid food poisoning caused by undercooked meat is to purchase a meat thermometer.
Pork loins should reach at least 63 °C in the center before you stop cooking them. Some people prefer to cook meat to 71 °C, which is generally the recommended temperature for killing organisms, but that has recently changed
Step 2. Defrost the pork tenderloin, if you haven't already
Place in the refrigerator overnight. Use the tenderloin within 1 to 2 days of thawing.
Step 3. Remove excess fat from the tenderloin, if desired
If you see large chunks of fat and you prefer a leaner dish, cut it with a butcher's knife or chef's knife.
Step 4. Pay attention to the weight of the pork loin
Pork loins must be packed at the stated weight from the supermarket. Knowing the weight will help you cook in the right amount of time.
Part 2 of 5: Seasoning
Step 1. Coat the pork loin with some black pepper and salt
Some people prefer to use this simple seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the perfect cut of meat.
Step 2. Consider using other dressings or spices
- You can marinate the pork for 1 to 8 hours. Use any dipping sauce you like. Pork marinade usually uses sweet ingredients such as brown sugar and apple cider or spicy herbs.
- Coat the pork with additional herbs and spices for a dry coating. You can use Italian herbs, rosemary, garlic powder, thyme or a spice mix that is readily available in stores.
- For a more complicated recipe, consider making a pork tenderloin filling. Spread the meat out to create a filling opening. Combine breadcrumbs, rice, cheese or other filling. Spread it between the 2 pieces and tie them together using twine. Bake in the oven.
Part 3 of 5: Frying Loin
Step 1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat to high
Step 2. Add 1 tbsp (15 ml) of oil
Step 3. Put the pork loin in the pan
Once the meat begins to turn caramel brown, flip it over to the other side. Browning the entire loin side takes between 5 and 8 minutes.
Part 4 of 5: Cooking Method
Step 1. Consider some of the ways you can grill pork loin
The method you choose may depend on the time you have available and the seasoning or dipping sauce used.
- Preheat the oven to 218 °C to bake loins. Place the meat in a frying pan or on a grill pan. Place in the oven for 20 to 40 minutes. Smaller loins take 15 to 20 minutes to cook, while larger loins take longer. Use a meat thermometer to determine if the loins are cooked.
- Heat the grill over medium-high heat to grill the loins. Turn off 1 side of the grill once heated. Place the loin on the side of the grill that is turned off. Loin should be roasted on indirect fire. Turn every 5 minutes. Cook for 20 to 40 minutes. Insert a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step 2. Remove the pork loin from the heat source once it reaches 63 °C
Part 5 of 5: Resting and Serving
Step 1. Place the loin on a plate or cutting board
Cover with aluminum foil.
Step 2. Rest for 20 minutes before serving
This process allows the juices to penetrate more deeply and keeps the meat moist.
Step 3. Thinly slice the loin
Serve with salad, rice or vegetables.
