Recipe: Jamaican Grilled Jerk Pork Tenderloin

Introduction

Jerk is a traditional Jamaican style of cooking meat, typically chicken or pork, that is marinated in a spicy mixture of herbs and spices before being grilled over an open flame. This recipe for Jamaican Grilled Jerk Pork Tenderloin is a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of the Caribbean to your backyard barbecue.

Ingredients

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pork Tenderloins

• Trim any excess fat and silver skin from the pork tenderloins.
• Cut each tenderloin in half so you have four pieces.
• Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in the meat to help the marinade penetrate.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

• In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
• Add the pork tenderloins to the bowl and toss to coat in the marinade.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.

Step 3: Grill the Pork Tenderloins

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Remove the pork tenderloins from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
• Grill the pork tenderloins for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Remove the pork tenderloins from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Jamaican Grilled Jerk Pork Tenderloin with rice and beans for a traditional Caribbean meal.
• Add a side of grilled pineapple or mango for a sweet and tangy contrast to the spicy jerk seasoning.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped scallions for a pop of color and flavor.

Conclusion

This recipe for Jamaican Grilled Jerk Pork Tenderloin is a flavorful and easy way to bring a taste of the Caribbean to your next backyard barbecue. With a spicy marinade made from a blend of herbs and spices, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve with rice and beans, grilled fruit, and fresh herbs for a complete and satisfying meal.