pork tenderloin brine recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best pork tenderloin brine recipe

I’ve been making this pork tenderloin brine recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves it because it’s easy to make and always turns out delicious. The pork tenderloin is so tender and flavorful, and the brine gives it a nice depth of flavor.

I’ve made this recipe for special occasions like holidays and birthdays, but it’s also a great option for a quick weeknight dinner. The best part is that it’s incredibly healthy, with no added sugars or artificial preservatives. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always excited to see what new ingredients we’ll be using.

We’ve even started a tradition where we make this recipe on Sundays and have a family dinner together. It’s a great way to spend time together and catch up on each other’s weeks. One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is.

We’ve used different seasonings and herbs to give it a unique flavor each time, and it’s always been a hit. The key to this recipe is the home cooking technique of brining the pork tenderloin. It’s surprisingly easy to do, and the results are well worth the effort.

I’ve experimented with different ratios of salt to sugar, but this one works perfectly every time. I’m happy to share my secrets with you so you can enjoy this delicious recipe as much as we do.

Perfect Pork Tenderloin Brine

4.8 from 1575 votes

This simple brine keeps pork tenderloin juicy and flavorful. It uses kosher salt, brown sugar, and aromatics to enhance the meat.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours 35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

4 cups cold water
1/4 cup kosher salt
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 pound pork tenderloin, silverskin removed

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of warm water with the kosher salt and brown sugar.
2Whisk until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved.
3Add the remaining 2 cups of cold water, garlic, peppercorns, and rosemary to cool the brine.
4Place the pork tenderloin in the brine, ensuring it is fully submerged.
5Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but no longer than 4 hours to avoid over-brining.
6Remove the pork from the brine and discard the liquid.
7Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear.
8Preheat your oven to 425°F.
9Heat a tablespoon of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
10Sear the pork for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
11Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F when tested with a meat thermometer.
12Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl or container
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Paper towels
Roasting pan or skillet
Meat thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 90mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Do not brine longer than 4 hours or the pork may become too salty. For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or a strip of orange zest to the brine.

Watch Video Of How Perfect Pork Tenderloin Brine Works

This pork tenderloin brine recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it guarantees a juicy and flavorful result every time. It works well for family gatherings because you can prep it ahead and the cooking is quick.

I love that I can serve it with different sides depending on the season or what I have in the fridge. For leftovers, store the cooked pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, slice the meat and warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also serve it cold in sandwiches or salads.

This recipe is versatile enough for a busy weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pork Tenderloin Brine

Q: What is the purpose of the brine in this recipe?

The brine is used to add flavor and moisture to the pork tenderloin. By soaking the meat in a solution of salt, sugar, and herbs, we can enhance its natural flavor without adding any extra ingredients.

Q: Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

No, this recipe specifically calls for pork tenderloin. The low fat content of the pork makes it perfect for brining, but other meats like chicken or beef may not have the same results.

Q: How long should I soak the pork tenderloin in the brine?

The recommended soaking time is at least 2 hours, but you can let it sit for up to 24 hours if you prefer a stronger flavor.

Q: Can I adjust the seasoning in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to give your pork tenderloin a unique flavor.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe is gluten-free and can be adapted to suit other dietary needs by substituting ingredients like sugar with honey or maple syrup.

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