Crispy Midwest Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
This mouthwatering Crispy Midwest Pork Tenderloin Sandwich is a beloved staple from America's Heartland, particularly celebrated in Hannibal, Missouri. With its juicy, tender pork coated in a crunchy cracker meal crust, this sandwich embodies the flavors and culinary traditions of the region. It's perfect for lunch or as a satisfying snack, especially when served on a fluffy hamburger bun and topped with your favorite condiments. Enjoy a taste of the Midwest tradition that brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Tenderloin
1 (Cut into 3/4 inch slices)
Saltine Crackers
To taste (Made into meal using a blender or processor)
Water
1 cup (N/A)
Bouillon
1 tablespoon (Any brand or flavor, dissolved in water)
Oil
For frying (N/A)
Hamburger Buns
4 (N/A)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the pork tenderloin into 3/4 inch thick slices.
2
Using a meat mallet, pound each slice until it is approximately 1/4 inch thick for even cooking.
3
Prepare a dish with saltine cracker meal and spread it evenly for easy coating.
4
In a separate bowl, pour in the water and stir in the bouillon until completely dissolved.
5
Dip each pork slice into the bouillon water, allowing excess to drip off, then transfer it to the cracker meal.
6
Coat each slice thoroughly with the cracker meal, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
7
Heat oil in a deep fryer or frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
8
Carefully add the coated pork slices to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
9
Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the pork is golden brown and crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
10
Assemble the fried pork slices on hamburger buns and add your choice of condiments like mustard, mayonnaise, or pickles.
11
Serve immediately and enjoy this Midwest classic!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Crispy Midwest Pork Tenderloin Sandwich?
It is a beloved culinary staple from America's Heartland, featuring juicy pork coated in a crunchy saltine cracker meal crust.
Where is this sandwich particularly celebrated?
This recipe is a specialty of Hannibal, Missouri, and is a tradition throughout the Midwest.
How thick should I cut the pork tenderloin slices?
The pork tenderloin should initially be cut into 3/4 inch thick slices.
What is the purpose of using a meat mallet in this recipe?
Pounding the pork with a meat mallet ensures the meat is tender and has an even thickness for uniform cooking.
What is the target thickness for the pounded pork?
Each slice should be pounded until it is approximately 1/4 inch thick.
What is used to create the crunchy coating?
Saltine crackers are crushed into a fine meal to create the signature crunchy crust.
How can I make saltine cracker meal at home?
You can use a blender or food processor to grind saltine crackers into a fine meal.
What is the function of the bouillon in this recipe?
Bouillon is dissolved in water to create a flavorful dip that helps the cracker meal adhere to the pork.
What flavor of bouillon is recommended?
You can use any brand or flavor of bouillon according to your preference.
How do I prepare the bouillon dip?
Stir 1 tablespoon of bouillon into 1 cup of water until it is completely dissolved.
How do I coat the pork slices?
Dip each slice into the bouillon water, allow excess to drip off, then transfer to the cracker meal and press gently.
What temperature should the oil be for frying?
The oil should be heated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
How long does it take to fry the pork?
The pork slices should be fried for about 3 to 4 minutes.
How do I know when the pork is finished cooking?
The pork is ready when the coating is golden brown and the exterior is crispy.
Can I use a frying pan instead of a deep fryer?
Yes, you can use either a deep fryer or a standard frying pan to achieve great results.
Why should I fry the pork in batches?
Frying in batches avoids overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures crispiness.
What should I do after removing the pork from the oil?
Place the fried pork on paper towels to drain and absorb any excess oil.
What kind of bun is traditionally used for this sandwich?
A fluffy hamburger bun is the standard choice for serving this Midwest classic.
What condiments are recommended for a pork tenderloin sandwich?
Common toppings include mustard, mayonnaise, and pickles, though you can use any of your favorites.
When is the best time to serve this dish?
It is best served immediately while the pork is hot and the crust is at its crispiest.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is a classic comfort food that brings nostalgia with every bite.
How many sandwiches does this recipe yield?
The recipe is designed to make 4 sandwiches.
Can I use any brand of saltine crackers?
Yes, any brand of saltine crackers will work perfectly for the cracker meal.
What is the texture of the finished sandwich?
The sandwich features a juicy and tender interior with a very crunchy cracker crust.
Is this a good recipe for lunch?
Yes, it is perfect for lunch or as a satisfying snack.
Does the recipe require many ingredients?
No, it only requires 6 main ingredients: pork tenderloin, saltines, water, bouillon, oil, and buns.
What cuisine category does this fall under?
This is a classic American cuisine dish, specifically from the Midwest region.
Can I adjust the amount of saltines used?
Yes, the amount of saltine crackers can be adjusted to taste based on how much coating you prefer.
Do I need to season the pork before breading?
The bouillon dip and saltine crackers provide significant flavor, but you can add extra seasoning if desired.
What makes the Midwest pork tenderloin sandwich unique?
Its uniqueness comes from the specific use of cracker meal as a breading and its origins in Missouri heartland culture.