Succulent Pork Tenderloin Medallions: A Recipe for Success

Pork tenderloin medallions offer a delightful balance of flavor and ease of preparation. This recipe focuses on creating perfectly cooked, juicy medallions that are bursting with flavor, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We'll cover everything from preparation to serving suggestions, ensuring your pork tenderloin medallions are a resounding success.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities accordingly for larger or smaller batches.

• 1 (1-1.5 lb) pork tenderloin: Choose a tenderloin that's relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides flavor and helps with browning.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural pork flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A classic complement to pork.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth of flavor.
• Optional additions: Consider adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for an extra layer of aroma and taste.

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin Medallions:

1. Trim the Silver Skin: Carefully remove any silver skin from the pork tenderloin using a sharp knife. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent tough spots.

2. Cut into Medallions: Cut the tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions. Try to keep the medallions as uniform in size as possible for consistent cooking.

3. Season Generously: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Generously season each medallion on all sides with the spice mixture. If using fresh herbs, add them at this stage.

Cooking the Pork Tenderloin Medallions:

This recipe offers two excellent cooking methods: pan-searing and baking. Choose the method that best suits your equipment and time constraints.

Pan-Seared Pork Tenderloin Medallions:

1. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Sear the Medallions: Place the seasoned medallions in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms.

3. Reduce Heat and Cook Through: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), the safe temperature for pork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

4. Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the medallions from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

Baked Pork Tenderloin Medallions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned medallions on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Again, use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

4. Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions:

These flavorful pork tenderloin medallions pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with:

• Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and herbs.
• Creamy mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food pairing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Elevate the classic with garlic.
• Wild rice pilaf: Adds texture and flavor.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing counterpoint to the rich pork.

Tips for Success:

• Don't overcrowd the pan: If pan-searing, cook the medallions in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure the pork is cooked to the safe internal temperature.
• Let the meat rest: Allowing the meat to rest before slicing is crucial for retaining its juices.

This recipe for pork tenderloin medallions is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with a delicious and easy-to-make meal. Enjoy!