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Best Juicy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, mouth-watering, and healthy dinner option, look no further than the air fryer. The air fryer not only saves you time but also captures the rich flavours and juicy textures of pork tenderloin. This article will guide you through an easy yet delicious air fryer pork tenderloin recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.

What is Pork Tenderloin?

Pork tenderloin is a long, thin cut of pork that comes from the loin of the pig. It is known for being incredibly lean and tender, making it an excellent choice for quick meals. When cooked correctly, it can remain juicy and flavoursome, and using an air fryer is one of the best methods to achieve this.

Ingredients Needed

To make the best juicy air fryer pork tenderloin, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pork Tenderloin

• 1 (1-1.5 lb) pork tenderloin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

For Serving (Optional)

• Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or thyme)
• Lemon wedges
• Your choice of sides (e.g., roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

1. Trim the Tenderloin: Remove any silver skin (the tough connective tissue) from the pork tenderloin. This helps the marinade penetrate the meat better and ensures an even cook.

2. Marinade the Pork: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork tenderloin. If you like, you can also drizzle some balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavour. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes; for best results, marinate it in the fridge for a couple of hours or overnight.

Step 2: Preheating the Air Fryer

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the pork starts cooking evenly and locks in those tasty juices.

Step 3: Cooking

1. Place Tenderloin in the Air Fryer: Carefully place the marinated pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket. Ensure there’s some space around it for the hot air to circulate.

2. Air Fry the Pork: Cook at 200°C (390°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Use a meat thermometer for the best results.

Step 4: Resting and Serving

1. Rest the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. Resting is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender.

2. Slice and Serve: Slice the tenderloin into medallions, serve with your favourite sides, and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Tips for the Best Results

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for a good-quality pork tenderloin for the best taste and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Marinade: The longer you allow the meat to marinate, the more flavourful it will be. Even a 30-minute soak can make a big difference.
• Monitor the Temperature: Every air fryer is different, so it’s pivotal to check the internal temperature rather than strictly adhering to the cooking time.

Conclusion

This juicy air fryer pork tenderloin recipe is not only simple and quick but also delivers flavour and tenderness that will certainly satisfy your taste buds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress. With minimal fuss and maximum flavour, you’ll soon be making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!