Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Jamaican Grilled Pork Tenderloin?
It is a Caribbean-inspired dish featuring pork tenderloin marinated in a blend of lime juice, jalapeno, garlic, and ginger, then grilled and served with mango chutney.
What cut of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for a 1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat.
How long should the pork marinate?
The pork should be marinated in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor.
What are the ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of lime juice, chopped jalapeno, smashed garlic, minced ginger, salt, and ground allspice.
How do I prepare the pork tenderloin before marinating?
Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin to ensure a leaner cut of meat.
To what temperature should the pork be cooked?
The pork should be cooked until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 160°F (70°C).
How long does it take to grill the pork?
It takes approximately 30 minutes of cooking time on the grill.
Is this Jamaican pork recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a spicy kick from the chopped jalapeno pepper and aromatic allspice.
What should I serve with the grilled pork?
The recipe recommends serving the sliced pork with a drizzle of mango chutney for a sweet contrast.
How much lime juice is required?
You will need 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice.
What type of garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of fresh smashed garlic.
How much ginger is used?
Use 1 teaspoon of minced fresh gingerroot for the best flavor.
What is the purpose of ground allspice in this recipe?
Allspice provides the warm, aromatic spice profile characteristic of Jamaican cuisine.
How do I prevent the pork from sticking to the grill?
Lightly coat the grill rack with vegetable oil cooking spray before you begin grilling.
Should I keep the marinade after removing the pork?
Yes, reserve the marinade to use for basting the pork while it is on the grill.
What heat level should I use for the grill?
The pork should be cooked over medium heat.
Do I need to cover the grill while cooking?
Yes, you should cover the grill to ensure even cooking.
How often should I turn the pork while grilling?
Turn the pork occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and does not burn.
Should the pork rest after cooking?
Yes, remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
How thick should I slice the pork?
Slice the pork tenderloin into 1/4-inch thick slices for serving.
How much mango chutney is suggested?
The recipe suggests using 1/4 cup of mango chutney for serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a BBQ?
Yes, this dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or family dinner.
What type of container should I use for marinating?
A large heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag is recommended for marinating and even coating.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust to taste.
What is the prep for the jalapeno?
Use 1 tablespoon of bottled chopped jalapeno pepper for ease and added spice.
Is this recipe considered a main course?
Yes, it is categorized as a main course dish.
Can I use fresh jalapenos instead of bottled?
While the recipe specifies bottled, fresh chopped jalapenos can also be used for a similar heat level.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total, including the pork and the optional mango chutney.
Is the gingerroot fresh or ground?
The recipe specifically calls for fresh minced gingerroot.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor profile is a mix of zesty citrus, pungent garlic and ginger, warm allspice, and a sweet finish from mango chutney.