Cooking a pork tenderloin on a gas grill is a great way to achieve a delicious and juicy result. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Ingredients:
- Pork tenderloin (sized to your preference)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper (or your preferred seasonings)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
- Start by removing the pork tenderloin from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Trimming any excess fat or silver skin is optional but can help enhance the tenderness and flavor of the meat.
Marinate or Season the Pork Tenderloin:
- You can choose to marinate the pork tenderloin to infuse it with additional flavors. Alternatively, simply season it with your preferred dry rub or a mixture of salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the meat and rub the seasoning all over, ensuring it's evenly coated. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
Preheat the Gas Grill:
- Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. Aim for a grill temperature of around 400°F to 450°F (204°C to 232°C).
Prepare the Grill Grates:
- Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking. You can use tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to oil the grates.
Grill the Pork Tenderloin:
- Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on the preheated grill. Close the lid and cook the tenderloin for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, turning it occasionally to ensure even cooking. Use grill tongs to handle the meat and avoid piercing it with a fork, as this can cause the juices to escape and result in a less juicy tenderloin.
Check the Internal Temperature:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin. It's essential to cook it to a safe temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest time according to the USDA guidelines. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin to get an accurate reading.
Rest the Pork Tenderloin:
- Once the pork tenderloin reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Slice and Serve:
- After resting, slice the pork tenderloin against the grain into medallions of your desired thickness. Serve the delicious and juicy grilled pork tenderloin with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the pork tenderloin and the grill's actual temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches a safe internal temperature while remaining juicy and flavorful.