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## **Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin**
Now that you have a clear understanding of the ingredients, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making **Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin**. This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced cooking techniques, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your pork tenderloin cooks evenly and reaches the desired level of doneness. If you’re grilling the pork tenderloin instead, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Glaze**
In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly. This will only take about 3-5 minutes. Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
### **Step 3: Season the Pork Tenderloin**
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning adhere better to the meat. Season the pork generously with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like, such as thyme or rosemary. Rub the seasonings into the pork to ensure that it’s evenly coated.
### **Step 4: Wrap the Pork in Bacon**
Lay out the slices of thick-cut bacon on a flat surface. Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the center of the bacon strips. Wrap the bacon around the pork, making sure that the strips overlap slightly. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the pork to ensure that they stay in place during cooking. You can secure the bacon with toothpicks if necessary.
### **Step 5: Sear the Pork Tenderloin (Optional)**
If you want to achieve a nice golden-brown crust on the bacon before roasting, you can sear the pork tenderloin in a hot skillet. Heat a little olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides for 2-3 minutes until the bacon is browned. This step is optional, but it helps to render some of the fat from the bacon, creating a crispier exterior.
### **Step 6: Roast the Pork Tenderloin**
Transfer the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin to the preheated oven and roast it for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Be sure to check the temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the pork.
During the last 10 minutes of roasting, begin brushing the pork with the prepared glaze every 3-4 minutes. This will allow the glaze to caramelize and form a beautiful, sticky coating on the pork and bacon.
### **Step 7: Rest the Pork Tenderloin**
Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that your pork remains juicy and tender. While the pork rests, you can drizzle a little extra glaze over the top for added flavor.
### **Step 8: Slice and Serve**
Slice the pork tenderloin into thick medallions and serve immediately. The crispy bacon, tender pork, and sweet glaze will combine to create a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress. Serve the dish with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
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## **Variations of Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin**
While the traditional version of **Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin** is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your personal taste. Here are a few ideas to try:
### **1. Maple Glaze**
For a sweeter twist, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar in the glaze. Maple syrup adds a rich sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon and tender pork.
### **2. Spicy Glaze**
If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili powder to the glaze. This spicy variation will add a bold contrast to the sweetness of the glaze and the saltiness of the bacon.
### **3. Herb-Infused Bacon**
For an extra layer of flavor, try infusing the bacon with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage. Simply sprinkle the herbs onto the bacon before wrapping it around the pork tenderloin for added fragrance and flavor.
### **4. Grilled Version**
If you prefer grilling, you can easily make this recipe on the grill. Simply wrap the pork tenderloin in bacon, brush with glaze, and cook on medium-high heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
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## **Conclusion: A Dish Worth Every Bite**
**Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin** is the epitome of indulgence and flavor, combining the tender juiciness of pork with the smoky crispness of bacon and the richness of a sweet-savory glaze. This dish is perfect for any special occasion or family gathering, and it’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
By following the simple steps outlined above, you can create a stunning and delicious dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you choose to stick with the classic glaze or experiment with different variations, this recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your preferences while delivering consistently mouthwatering results. So fire up your oven, grab some bacon, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of **Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin**.
