Ditka's Grilled Citrus Pork Sandwich
Experience the bold flavors of Chef Tom Kenny's masterful creation, the Ditka's Grilled Citrus Pork Sandwich. This dish features succulent pork tenderloin marinated in a vibrant and zesty blend of orange juice, soy sauce, and spices, guaranteeing a burst of flavor in every bite. Paired with a luscious Orange Aioli that enhances the sandwich's richness, this recipe is perfect for tailgates or casual lunches. The fresh toppings of tomato, lettuce, and sweet onion add a refreshing crunch that balances the savory pork and creamy sauce. Ideal for game days or any gathering, this sandwich is not only easy to prepare but also allows for flexible marinating time, intensifying the flavors. Serve it up on toasted kaiser rolls and enjoy a taste of Chicago at home!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
pork tenderloin
2 (1 lb) (trimmed)
orange juice
2 cups (fresh)
soy sauce
1/2 cup (none)
chopped garlic
1 tablespoon (fresh or to taste)
Dijon mustard
1/4 cup (none)
honey
1/4 cup (none)
cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
mayonnaise
1 cup (none)
orange juice
1/4 cup (none)
Tabasco sauce
1 tablespoon (none)
sugar
1/2 teaspoon (none)
minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon (fresh)
prepared horseradish
1/2 teaspoon (none)
chopped green onions
2 tablespoons (fresh)
kaiser rolls
8 (none)
tomatoes
2 (sliced thinly)
chopped lettuce
3 cups (washed and dried)
sweet onion
1 (thinly sliced (Vidalia recommended))
Instructions
1
In a large plastic zipper bag, combine orange juice, soy sauce, chopped garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and cayenne pepper to create Chef Tom's Marinade.
2
Add the pork tenderloins to the marinade, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. For enhanced flavor, marinate for up to 48 hours.
3
Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
4
Grill the pork tenderloins for 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5
While the pork is resting, prepare the Orange Aioli by mixing together the mayonnaise, orange juice, Tabasco sauce, sugar, minced garlic, horseradish, and chopped green onions in a bowl until well combined.
6
Toast the kaiser rolls on the grill until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
7
Slice the cooked pork tenderloins into thin pieces. Spread a generous layer of Orange Aioli on the inside of each roll.
8
Layer the sliced pork onto the rolls, followed by the fresh tomato slices, chopped lettuce, and thinly sliced sweet onion.
9
Assemble the sandwiches and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ditka's Grilled Citrus Pork Sandwich?
It is a sandwich created by Chef Tom Kenny featuring pork tenderloin marinated in a zesty citrus blend, topped with Orange Aioli and fresh vegetables on toasted kaiser rolls.
Who is the creator of this recipe?
The recipe was masterfully created by Chef Tom Kenny.
How long should I marinate the pork tenderloin?
The pork should be refrigerated in the marinade for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, but it can marinate for up to 48 hours for enhanced flavor.
What ingredients are in Chef Tom's Marinade?
The marinade consists of orange juice, soy sauce, chopped garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and cayenne pepper.
To what internal temperature should the pork be cooked?
The pork tenderloin should be grilled until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to grill the pork?
It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes on a medium-heat grill, turning occasionally.
What is in the Orange Aioli?
The aioli is a mix of mayonnaise, orange juice, Tabasco sauce, sugar, minced garlic, horseradish, and chopped green onions.
What type of bread is best for this sandwich?
The recipe calls for 8 kaiser rolls, toasted on the grill until golden brown and crispy.
What fresh toppings are recommended?
The sandwich is topped with fresh tomato slices, chopped lettuce, and thinly sliced sweet onion.
What kind of onion should I use?
A sweet onion is recommended, specifically a Vidalia onion.
Is this sandwich good for parties?
Yes, it is ideal for game days, tailgates, or any casual gathering due to its bold flavor and ease of preparation.
How much pork do I need for this recipe?
You will need two 1-pound pork tenderloins, trimmed.
Should I let the pork rest after grilling?
Yes, you should let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin pieces.
Is the Orange Aioli spicy?
It has a zesty kick from the Tabasco sauce and prepared horseradish, but is balanced by mayonnaise and sugar.
How many sandwiches does this recipe make?
Based on the ingredients, it makes approximately 8 sandwiches.
What kind of garlic is used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped garlic.
Does the marinade use honey?
Yes, it uses 1/4 cup of honey to add sweetness and balance the soy sauce.
How should I prepare the tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be sliced thinly for layering on the sandwich.
Should the orange juice be fresh?
The recipe recommends using fresh orange juice for the marinade.
What role does the soy sauce play?
The soy sauce provides a savory, salty depth to the citrus-based marinade.
Can I use prepared horseradish in the aioli?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of prepared horseradish is included in the aioli for extra flavor.
What is the best way to slice the pork?
After the pork has rested, it should be sliced into thin pieces for easy sandwich assembly.
How do I toast the kaiser rolls?
Toast them on the grill while the pork is resting until they are golden brown.
Should I reuse the marinade?
No, you should discard the excess marinade after removing the pork.
Is there any heat in the marinade?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is added to the marinade for a subtle heat.
What type of mustard is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard.
How are the green onions used?
Two tablespoons of chopped fresh green onions are mixed into the Orange Aioli.
Is the lettuce chopped or whole leaf?
The recipe uses 3 cups of washed and dried chopped lettuce.
How is the aioli assembled?
Mix mayonnaise, OJ, Tabasco, sugar, minced garlic, horseradish, and green onions in a bowl until well combined.
Does this sandwich have a specific regional style?
Yes, it is described as a taste of Chicago and inspired by the flavors favored by Coach Ditka.