Can You Make Pulled Pork With Tenderloin? Here’s The Surprising Answer!
What To Know
- Place the tenderloin in a large resealable bag and pour in the marinade.
- Pulled pork with tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways.
- Tenderloin is leaner and more tender, while shoulder has a higher fat content and more connective tissue, resulting in a more traditional pulled pork texture.
Pulled pork is a beloved dish, known for its tender, juicy meat and smoky flavor. But can you make pulled pork with tenderloin? The answer is a resounding yes! While pork shoulder is the traditional cut used for pulled pork, tenderloin can offer a surprisingly succulent and flavorful alternative.
What is Pork Tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is a long, narrow muscle located along the backbone of the pig. It is known for its leanness and tenderness, making it a popular choice for grilling, roasting, and stir-frying.
Why Use Pork Tenderloin for Pulled Pork?
While pork shoulder has a higher fat content and more connective tissue, which contribute to its traditional pulled pork texture, tenderloin offers several advantages:
- Tenderness: Tenderloin is naturally the most tender cut of pork, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Leanness: Tenderloin is a leaner cut, resulting in less shrinkage during cooking.
- Quick Cooking: Tenderloin cooks quickly, reducing the overall time spent preparing pulled pork.
How to Make Pulled Pork with Tenderloin
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pound pork tenderloin
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tenderloin: Trim any excess fat from the tenderloin and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
3. Marinate the Tenderloin: Place the tenderloin in a large resealable bag and pour in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Cook the Tenderloin: Preheat your grill or oven to 350°F (175°C). Grill the tenderloin for 10-15 minutes per side, or roast for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest the Tenderloin: Remove the tenderloin from the heat and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding.
6. Shred the Tenderloin: Use two forks to shred the tenderloin into bite-sized pieces.
7. Combine with Sauce: Pour the remaining marinade over the shredded tenderloin and mix well to coat.
Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork with Tenderloin
- Choose a Quality Tenderloin: Select a tenderloin that is firm and has a deep pink color.
- Don’t Overcook: Tenderloin cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is reached.
- Use a Good Barbecue Sauce: The barbecue sauce is crucial for flavor. Choose a sauce that has a balance of sweetness, smokiness, and acidity.
- Let it Rest: Resting the tenderloin before shredding allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender final product.
Variations on Pulled Pork with Tenderloin
- Carolina-Style: Add a tangy vinegar-based barbecue sauce and serve with coleslaw.
- Memphis-Style: Use a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce and serve with barbecue beans.
- Kansas City-Style: Combine a sweet and spicy barbecue sauce with a side of baked beans.
Serving Suggestions
Pulled pork with tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:
- Sandwiches: Serve on buns or rolls with your favorite toppings, such as slaw, pickles, and barbecue sauce.
- Tacos: Fill tortillas with pulled pork, toppings, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
- Salads: Add pulled pork to salads for a protein boost.
- Appetizers: Serve pulled pork on crackers or crostini for a party-pleasing treat.
The Final Bite
Pulled pork with tenderloin is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Embrace the leanness and tenderness of tenderloin for a pulled pork experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
FAQ
Q: Is pulled pork with tenderloin as good as pulled pork with shoulder?
A: Both cuts offer unique attributes. Tenderloin is leaner and more tender, while shoulder has a higher fat content and more connective tissue, resulting in a more traditional pulled pork texture.
Q: How long should I marinate pulled pork with tenderloin?
A: Marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Q: Can I slow cook pulled pork with tenderloin?
A: Yes, you can slow cook tenderloin for pulled pork. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
