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Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions Wrapped in Bacon: A Succulent Delight

Pork tenderloin is a versatile and lean cut of meat that lends itself well to a range of delightful recipes. One such indulgent treat is Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions Wrapped in Bacon, a dish that combines the tenderness of pork with the crispy savouriness of bacon. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but cooking it in an air fryer ensures that the medallions are perfectly cooked while retaining moisture and flavour. Here’s how you can whip up this succulent dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To serve four, you will need:

• 450g pork tenderloin
• 8-10 rashers of bacon (streaky or back, according to preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

1. Trim the Tenderloin: Begin by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloin. This will help ensure a more tender and flavourful result.

2. Slice the Medallions: Cut the tenderloin into medallions approximately 2.5cm thick. This thickness allows for quicker cooking while ensuring that the edges are beautifully crispy.

3. Season the Medallions: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork medallions, giving them a generous coating.

Wrapping in Bacon

1. Wrap Each Medallion: Take one rasher of bacon and wrap it around a pork medallion, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat this for the remaining medallions. The bacon will not only impart flavour but also help keep the pork moist during cooking.

Cooking in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 200°C (around 400°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the medallions start cooking immediately, promoting better browning.

2. Arrange the Medallions: Place the bacon-wrapped medallions in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. This allows for proper air circulation, which is key for achieving that perfect crispiness.

3. Air Fry: Cook the pork medallions at 200°C for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 63°C (145°F) for perfectly cooked pork.

4. Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, allow the medallions to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent meal.

Serving Suggestions

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions Wrapped in Bacon can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. For an added touch, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze or a homemade herb sauce over the medallions before serving.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions Wrapped in Bacon recipe is not only quick and easy but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, the wonderful combination of flavours and textures—tender pork enveloped in crispy bacon—is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful taste of this modern twist on a classic dish!