
There are a variety of ways to cook pork tenderloin and asparagus, and the cooking time varies depending on the method chosen. One option is to use a hybrid cooking method, starting by searing the pork tenderloin in a skillet and then transferring it to the oven to finish cooking. This helps to create a golden crust and ensures the meat is juicy and tender. The total cooking time for this method is typically around 20-26 minutes. Another approach is to simply bake the pork tenderloin and asparagus in the oven, which produces comparable results with less effort. The baking time will depend on the oven temperature and the size of the tenderloin, but it usually ranges from 20 to 30 minutes at 425°F or 450°F. Grilling is also an option, but it can be challenging to create even heat, and the lean tenderloin can dry out quickly.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Oven temperature | 425°F-450°F |
Roasting time | 20-30 minutes |
Pork tenderloin weight | 1-2 lbs |
Asparagus preparation | Trimmed, cut into 2-inch lengths, grilled |
Marinade ingredients | Honey, mustard, thyme, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, salt |
Additional ingredients | Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, lemon juice, lettuce, butter |
What You'll Learn
How to season pork tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a tasty, tender cut of meat that can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Here are some tips and tricks to help you season your pork tenderloin to perfection:
Choose Your Seasonings
Begin by deciding on the flavours you want to incorporate. You can go with a simple combination of salt and freshly ground black pepper, or add other seasonings like granulated garlic, herbes de Provence, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, dried oregano, cinnamon, or a spice rub blend. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary and thyme, or try a steak seasoning.
Prepare the Pork
Inspect your tenderloin and remove the silver skin, a tough, shimmery greyish band of connective tissue, using a sharp knife. Pat the tenderloin dry with a paper towel. Trimming the silver skin ensures even cooking and a better texture.
Apply the Seasonings
Now, it's time to season your pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper, and any other seasonings or spice blends you've chosen. Massage the seasonings into the meat, ensuring an even coating. If using a spice rub, you can apply it and let the tenderloin sit for at least 10 minutes or even refrigerate it overnight for more intense flavours.
Cooking Techniques
The cooking technique you choose will also impact the flavour and texture of your pork tenderloin. A hybrid cooking method that combines searing and roasting is recommended for the best results.
First, sear the tenderloin in a hot pan with oil to create a beautiful golden crust. Then, transfer the pan to a preheated oven to finish cooking the interior to a juicy, tender perfection. This two-step process ensures a delicious crust without overcooking the meat.
Remember to let your pork tenderloin rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more flavourful and juicy.
With these tips, you're well on your way to creating a mouthwatering, perfectly seasoned pork tenderloin!
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How long to cook pork tenderloin
The cooking time for pork tenderloin varies depending on the method, the size of the tenderloin, and the desired doneness. Here's a detailed guide on how long to cook pork tenderloin:
Stovetop Method:
- The stovetop method involves searing the pork tenderloin in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- While this method can produce a nice crust, it can also lead to uneven cooking, resulting in a dry and tough exterior with only the center of the meat being perfectly cooked.
- Therefore, it is important to monitor the temperature closely to avoid overcooking.
Grill Method:
- Grilling pork tenderloin can yield similar results to the stovetop method, as it is challenging to create even heat on the grill.
- The lean nature of the tenderloin means it can dry out very quickly, so close attention is required.
Oven Method:
- The oven method involves baking the pork tenderloin in a preheated oven.
- For a 1.25-pound tenderloin, bake at 425°F for about 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Alternatively, you can cook it at a higher temperature of 450°F for 20-30 minutes.
- It is recommended to cover the pork loosely with foil if roasting for longer than 20 minutes to prevent the top from burning.
Hybrid Method (Sear and Roast):
- The hybrid method combines stovetop searing and oven roasting for the best results.
- First, sear the tenderloin quickly over medium-high heat on all sides to achieve a golden crust.
- Then, transfer the skillet to the oven preheated to 425°F, or transfer the tenderloin to a baking dish if the skillet is not oven-safe.
- Roast the pork for 14-18 minutes, flipping it halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- Finally, let the tenderloin rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
Additional Tips:
- It is important to note that the temperature will continue to rise while the pork rests, so remove it from the heat when it is 5-10 degrees shy of your desired doneness.
- Pork tenderloin benefits from a 10- to 15-minute rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a juicy and flavorful cut of meat.
- The USDA recommends cooking whole cuts of pork to an internal temperature of 145°F with a 3-minute rest period.
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How to roast asparagus
Roasting Asparagus
Roasting asparagus is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to roast asparagus:
Preparation
Firstly, you will need to trim the woody ends of the asparagus. You can do this by holding each end of the asparagus spear and bending it until it snaps. It should snap at the point where the woody part ends and the tender part begins. You can also use a knife to cut off the ends if you prefer.
Seasoning
Once the asparagus is trimmed, you can choose to season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. You can also drizzle it with a small amount of olive oil or avocado oil to help the seasonings stick and add a bit of flavour.
Cooking
Preheat your oven to a temperature between 425 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the seasoned asparagus on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Roast the asparagus for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it is tender and lightly charred. You can also grill the asparagus for a similar amount of time, ensuring the stalks are perpendicular to the grill grates to avoid losing them through the grates.
Serving
Roasted asparagus can be served as a side dish or added to other recipes. It pairs well with proteins such as chicken, fish, or beef. It can also be tossed with pasta, rice, or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Tips
- For extra flavour, try wrapping the asparagus in bacon before roasting.
- For even cooking, ensure that the asparagus spears are evenly spaced on the baking sheet or roasting pan.
- Avoid overcooking the asparagus, as it can become mushy and lose its bright green colour.
- If you want to add a squeeze of lemon juice, add it after the asparagus is cooked to avoid discolouration.
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How long to roast asparagus
Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that can be roasted in the oven or grilled. The cooking time will depend on the method you choose and your preferred doneness. Here is a guide to help you achieve perfectly roasted asparagus:
Roasting Asparagus in the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to a temperature between 425°F and 450°F.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and placing a rack on top. Grease the rack lightly.
- Wash and trim the asparagus spears, cutting off any woody ends.
- Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil or avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper or your choice of spices. You can also add other ingredients like sliced lemons or garlic cloves for additional flavor.
- Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes for thinner spears, and 10 to 15 minutes for thicker spears. For best results, aim for crisp-tender asparagus with a lightly charred exterior.
Grilling Asparagus:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Wash and trim the asparagus spears, ensuring they are dry before placing them on the grill.
- Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper or your choice of seasonings.
- Place the asparagus perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from falling through.
- Grill the asparagus for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are lightly charred and crisp-tender.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Asparagus:
- For even cooking, try to choose asparagus spears of similar thickness.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet or grill, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness. If you like your asparagus with more bite, aim for the shorter cooking times. For more well-done asparagus, add a few extra minutes.
- For oven-roasted asparagus, you can cover the spears with foil after 10 minutes of cooking time to prevent over-browning.
Remember, these cooking times are approximate, and the actual time may vary slightly depending on your oven, grill, and the thickness of your asparagus spears. Always keep an eye on your asparagus while cooking to prevent overcooking. Enjoy your perfectly roasted asparagus as a side dish or a tasty addition to your meals!
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How to store asparagus
Asparagus is best enjoyed fresh, but if you're not eating it within a few days of it being picked, you'll need to know how to store it properly. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your asparagus fresh and crisp for as long as possible.
Short-Term Storage (1-2 days)
Wrap the bunch of asparagus with a few sheets of damp paper towel and place it in a breathable plastic bag. You can keep the rubber band that comes with the bunch around it to keep the spears intact. Store it in the vegetable or crisper drawer of your fridge as soon as you get home from the grocery store.
Long-Term Storage (up to 5 days)
Keep the spears in a glass or jar with some water. First, trim about an inch off the ends of the asparagus stalks using a sharp knife. Add about an inch of water to your jar or glass. Stand the asparagus stalks upright in the jar with the water. Cover the top of the asparagus stalks with a reusable or plastic bag to keep the ends fresh and prevent them from drying out. Place it in the refrigerator and change out the water if it starts to look cloudy.
Other Tips
- Avoid the top shelf of the fridge, as some older fridges may freeze water (and your asparagus!).
- Keep an eye on the water after 3 days and change it if it looks cloudy.
- Don't overcrowd the jar or glass. If you have a large bunch of asparagus, use multiple jars or glasses.
- Asparagus should be refrigerated. The only time you should consider storing it on your counter is if you plan to eat it the same day.
- Wash asparagus before cooking or consuming it.
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