Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

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Introduction:
Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a show-stopping dish that combines the lean, tender meat of pork tenderloin with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon. This recipe not only elevates the tenderloin with added moisture and flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation perfect for any dinner party or special occasion. The result is a juicy, succulent pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon, bursting with flavor in every bite.

 

**Step 6: Rest and Serve**

1. **Rest:**
– Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum juiciness.

 

2. **Slice and Garnish:**
– Carefully slice the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin into medallions. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

**Flavor Profile:**

– This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors: the pork tenderloin is tender and juicy, while the bacon adds a smoky, savory crispness. The herbs and garlic impart a fragrant aroma and enhance the overall taste.

**Nutritional Benefits:**

– Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, providing a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. While bacon adds fat and calories, using a moderate amount keeps the dish indulgent yet balanced.

 

**Tips and Variations:**

– **Herb Variations:** Experiment with different herbs like sage or oregano for a unique twist.
– **Spicy Kick:** Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mustard mixture for a spicy kick.
– **Fruit Glaze:** For a fruity note, glaze the tenderloin with apricot or apple preserves during the last few minutes of cooking.

 

**Conclusion:**

Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a delicious and impressive dish that combines simplicity with gourmet flair. The tender, flavorful pork, paired with the crispy, smoky bacon, creates a memorable dining experience that’s perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delectable dish and savor the rich, savory flavors with every bite!

 

Ingredients
  •  Thinly sliced bacon
  •  Pork tenderloin
  •  Brown sugar
  •  Ground mustard
  •  Garlic powder
  •  Salt
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the bacon
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a medium baking sheet with foil. Lay out the bacon strips on the baking sheet so that the long edges are slightly overlapped.
Step 2: Add the spice rub
Combine the brown sugar, ground mustard, garlic powder and salt in a small bowl. Rub this spice blend over the entire surface of the pork tenderloin.
Step 3: Wrap it in bacon
Center the seasoned tenderloin on top of the bacon strips; the tenderloin should be perpendicular to the strips. Going one strip at a time, pull up the ends of the bacon over the pork, overlapping the ends, until the tenderloin is completely wrapped up in bacon.
Cut several pieces of kitchen twine; tie them around the meat at 3-inch intervals to help hold the bacon wrap in place.
Step 4: Bake
Place the pan in the oven and roast the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin: 25 to 30 minutes for 1 pound, or 40 to 45 minutes for 1-1/2 pounds. The internal temperature should be 145° on a digital meat thermometer.
Editor’s Tip: Once the pork reaches 145° switch the oven setting to broil. Broil the tenderloin for one to three minutes to crisp up the bacon strips.
Step 5: Slice and serve
Remove and discard the kitchen twine, then let the pork rest for five minutes. Slice it into pieces with a sharp knife, and serve the tenderloin while it’s hot.

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