Citrus-Infused Pork Tenderloin Marinade
Elevate your pork tenderloin experience with this vibrant Citrus-Infused Pork Tenderloin Marinade. Combining the sweetness of fresh orange juice, the umami richness of dark soy sauce, and a touch of heat from cayenne pepper, this marinade creates a delectable balance of flavors. Ideal for grill parties or family dinners, marinating the pork overnight allows the flavors to fully permeate the meat, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful pork. Perfect for those looking to impress their guests with an easy yet sophisticated dish.
N/A
Servings
44
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Orange Juice
2 cups (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
Dark Soy Sauce
1/2 cup (preferably low-sodium)
Garlic
2 tablespoons (crushed)
Dijon Mustard
1/4 cup (smooth)
Honey
1/4 cup (natural)
Cayenne Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, dark soy sauce, crushed garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
2
Place your pork tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, ensuring they fit snugly.
3
Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it's evenly coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate.
4
Marinate the pork for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply infuse the meat.
5
When ready to cook, remove the pork from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill, roast, or sear the tenderloins until cooked through.
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
8g
Carbs
1g
Protein
5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the Citrus-Infused Pork Tenderloin Marinade?
This marinade is designed to elevate pork tenderloin by combining sweet citrus flavors with umami richness and a touch of heat for a tender and juicy result.
How long should I marinate the pork?
For the best flavor infusion, you should marinate the pork for at least 8 hours, though marinating it overnight is highly recommended.
What are the primary ingredients in this marinade?
The primary ingredients are orange juice, dark soy sauce, crushed garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and cayenne pepper.
Can I use store-bought orange juice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either freshly squeezed orange juice or store-bought orange juice for this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
The marinade contains a touch of heat from 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, but it is generally considered mild and balanced.
Can I reuse the marinade after the pork is cooked?
No, you should always discard the marinade after removing the raw pork to prevent any risk of cross-contamination.
What is the calorie count for this marinade?
This marinade contains approximately 44 calories per serving.
What type of soy sauce should I use?
The recipe calls for dark soy sauce, and using a low-sodium version is a great option for those watching their salt intake.
Can I cook the pork using methods other than grilling?
Yes, you can roast, sear, or grill the tenderloins after they have finished marinating.
What can I substitute for honey in this recipe?
You can use natural maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey if needed.
Is this marinade suitable for party food?
Yes, the sophisticated yet easy-to-achieve flavor profile makes it perfect for grill parties and impressing guests.
How much sugar is in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of sugar, mostly from the orange juice and honey.
Can I use this marinade for other types of meat?
While optimized for pork tenderloin, this citrus-umami blend also works very well with chicken or pork chops.
Should I use smooth or grainy Dijon mustard?
The recipe specifically recommends using smooth Dijon mustard for a consistent texture in the marinade.
How much garlic do I need?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of crushed garlic.
Can I freeze the pork while it is in the marinade?
Yes, you can place the pork and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze it, though the texture may change if frozen for long periods.
Is this marinade high in fat?
No, this marinade is very low in fat, containing only 1 gram per serving.
What is the best way to ensure the pork is evenly coated?
Using a resealable plastic bag allows you to massage the marinade around the meat and ensures all surfaces are covered.
Can I adjust the amount of cayenne pepper?
Yes, the cayenne pepper can be adjusted to your personal taste preference for more or less heat.
Does this marinade contain any fiber?
No, this recipe contains 0g of fiber.
What kind of garlic preparation is best?
Crushed garlic is recommended as it releases more oils and flavor into the liquid marinade.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients used to create this marinade.
Is this recipe considered an easy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe because it mainly involves whisking ingredients together and waiting.
Can I use lemon juice instead of orange juice?
You can, but it will significantly change the flavor profile to be more tart; orange juice provides a specific sweetness essential to this version.
Is this recipe low in protein?
The marinade itself is low in protein (1g), though the pork it is used on will be high in protein.
What container is best for marinating?
A resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish where the pork fits snugly is best for marinating.
How many carbohydrates are in this marinade?
There are 8 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What should the internal temperature of the pork be?
You should cook the pork tenderloin until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
Does the marinade use natural honey?
The recipe recommends using natural honey for the best flavor and quality.
Why is the pork refrigerated during marinating?
Refrigeration is essential for food safety to keep the meat at a temperature that prevents bacterial growth while the flavors infuse.