Grilled Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: A Succulent Delight

"Indulge your taste buds with the incredible flavors of a perfectly grilled bacon wrapped pork tenderloin. This mouthwatering recipe combines succulent pork tenderloin with the smoky and savory taste of crispy bacon. Get ready to take your grilling game to new heights!"

Grilling is not just about burgers and hot dogs; it's about exploring the endless possibilities of creating flavorsome dishes that leave you craving more. And when it comes to grilling, the combination of tender pork loin, wrapped in crispy bacon, takes the center stage.

Preparing the Perfect Pork Tenderloin

Selecting the Right Cut

Start by selecting a high-quality pork tenderloin. Look for meat that is pink with a small amount of marbling. Avoid pieces with excessive fat, as it can result in flare-ups on the grill.

Marinating for Enhanced Flavor

Marination is the secret to infusing deep and rich flavors into the pork tenderloin. Prepare a marinade by combining ingredients like olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Place the tenderloin along with the marinade in a ziplock bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

"Marinating the pork tenderloin not only adds incredible flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy and succulent texture."

Wrapping the Pork in Bacon

Preparing the Bacon Weave

Lay out thin slices of bacon side by side on a cutting board, creating a square or rectangular shape by slightly overlapping the bacon slices. Create a second layer of slices in the opposite direction. This weaving technique will create a sturdy wrap that holds the pork tenderloin together while cooking.

Seasoning the Pork

Remove the marinated pork tenderloin from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Season the pork with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices of your choice. The flavors from the marinade will seep into the meat, while the seasoning provides an added punch.

Wrapping the Meat

Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the center of the bacon weave. Carefully fold the bacon slices over the pork, creating a snug and secure wrap. Use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place, ensuring it stays intact during grilling.

"The bacon not only adds a tantalizing smoky flavor to the pork tenderloin but also helps keep the meat incredibly moist as it cooks."

Grill Like a Pro

Preparing the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, arrange hot coals on one side to create a two-zone cooking area. For gas grills, heat one side on high and leave the other side on low heat. This setup allows for both direct and indirect grilling.

Searing the Bacon Wrap

Carefully place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin directly on the grill grates above the direct heat. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until the bacon is crispy and browned. This initial searing adds a delightful charred flavor to the meat.

Indirect Grilling for Perfection

Move the seared bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin to the cooler side of the grill or turn off one burner for gas grills, ensuring indirect heat. Close the grill lid and let the meat continue cooking for around 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a digital meat thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature and prevent overcooking.

"Indirect grilling creates a gentle heat around the bacon wrapped pork tenderloin, allowing it to cook evenly and retain its juiciness, resulting in an unbeatable flavor and texture."

Resting and Unwrapping

Once the pork reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a perfectly juicy and tender pork tenderloin. After resting, carefully remove the toothpicks and slice the grilled bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin into beautiful medallions.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Accompaniments for a Perfect Meal

Serve your grilled bacon wrapped pork tenderloin with a variety of tasty side dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled vegetables: Enhance the meal with a medley of perfectly grilled seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or corn on the cob.
• Roasted potatoes: Crispy and golden roasted potatoes make an excellent pairing with the tender pork medallions.
• Fresh salad: Add a refreshing touch to your plate with a simple green salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.

Suggested Sauces and Dips

Add an extra burst of flavor with delicious sauces and dips that complement the grilled bacon wrapped pork tenderloin:

• Creamy garlic sauce: Whip up a velvety garlic sauce by combining minced garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Mustard glaze: Create a tangy and sweet mustard glaze by mixing Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Elevate Your Grilling Experience

Grilling a bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is not just an ordinary cooking technique; it's an art that creates a masterpiece on your plate. The combination of the smoky flavors from the grill, the tenderness of the pork, and the crispiness of the bacon is an experience like no other. So, fire up those grills, gather your friends and family, and embark on a culinary journey full of delightful flavors and unforgettable memories.

"Take your grilling skills to new heights with this delicious bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin recipe. The perfect combination of savory bacon and tender pork is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds."