Chipotle crusted pork tenderloin is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of spicy chipotle peppers, smoky paprika, and savory garlic creates a mouthwatering crust that perfectly complements the tender pork. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow along to learn how to make chipotle crusted pork tenderloin that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Chipotle Crusted Pork Tenderloin
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Chipotle Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Paste
- Make the Chipotle Paste:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chipotle peppers, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary to create a paste.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Trim the Pork:
- Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloins.
- Coat with Chipotle Paste:
- Rub the chipotle paste over the pork tenderloins, coating them evenly.
Step 3: Sear and Roast the Pork
- Sear the Pork:
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloins for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Roast the Pork:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork tenderloins for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Slice:
- Remove the pork tenderloins from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the pork tenderloins into medallions and serve hot. Enjoy the chipotle crusted pork tenderloin with your favorite side dishes.
About the Main Ingredients
Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of pork that is perfect for roasting. It is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Pork tenderloin is also versatile and can be flavored in a variety of ways, making it ideal for this chipotle crusted pork tenderloin recipe.
Chipotle Peppers
Chipotle peppers are smoked jalapeños that add a spicy and smoky flavor to dishes. They are often sold canned in adobo sauce, which adds a rich and tangy flavor. Chipotle peppers are the star ingredient in the chipotle paste used to crust the pork tenderloin in this recipe.
Smoked Paprika
Smoked paprika is made from smoked and dried sweet peppers, giving it a deep, smoky flavor. It adds a rich, earthy taste to dishes and pairs perfectly with the spicy chipotle peppers in this recipe. Smoked paprika is a key ingredient in the chipotle paste that coats the pork tenderloin.
Cumin and Oregano
Cumin and oregano are two spices commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. They add warmth and depth of flavor to dishes, complementing the smoky and spicy flavors of the chipotle peppers and smoked paprika. Combined with the other ingredients in the chipotle paste, cumin and oregano create a robust and flavorful crust for the pork tenderloin.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to sear the pork tenderloins before roasting them in the oven. It adds a rich flavor and helps to brown the outside of the pork, creating a delicious crust. Olive oil is also a healthy fat, making it a great choice for cooking.
Chipotle crusted pork tenderloin is a simple yet impressive dish that is sure to become a favorite. With its bold flavors and tender texture, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Try this recipe for chipotle crusted pork tenderloin and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that your whole family will love!
