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## 5. How to Make Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: Step-by-Step
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into how to make **Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin**. This dish is relatively simple to prepare, but it requires a bit of attention to detail to ensure that the pork turns out perfectly cooked and beautifully glazed.
### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pork Tenderloin**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, remove the pork tenderloin from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the bacon adhere better to the meat.
If there’s any silver skin on the tenderloin, carefully remove it using a sharp knife. Next, season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper on all sides. Feel free to add any additional herbs or spices at this stage, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
### **Step 2: Wrap the Pork with Bacon**
Lay out the bacon strips on a clean surface. Starting at one end of the pork tenderloin, carefully wrap the bacon around the tenderloin, overlapping each piece slightly. Continue wrapping until the entire tenderloin is covered in bacon. Secure the ends of the bacon with toothpicks or kitchen twine to ensure that they stay in place while cooking.
### **Step 3: Prepare the Glaze**
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. This glaze will have a balanced combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that perfectly complement the pork and bacon.
### **Step 4: Sear the Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin**
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the pan and sear it on all sides until the bacon is golden brown and crispy. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing the pork before roasting helps lock in the juices and adds flavor.
### **Step 5: Apply the Glaze**
Once the pork tenderloin is seared, brush a generous amount of the glaze over the bacon-wrapped tenderloin, making sure it’s evenly coated.
### **Step 6: Roast in the Oven**
Transfer the skillet with the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin to the preheated oven. Roast for 20-30 minutes, depending on
the size of the tenderloin and the level of doneness you prefer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. You can brush the pork with more glaze halfway through cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
### **Step 7: Rest and Serve**
Once the pork tenderloin is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring that it remains juicy and tender. After resting, slice the pork into medallions and serve with your favorite sides.
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## 6. Cooking Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pork Tenderloin
To make sure your **Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin** turns out perfectly, here are a few cooking tips:
1. **Use a Meat Thermometer**: To avoid overcooking the pork, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork tenderloin should be cooked to 145°F (63°C) for optimal juiciness.
2. **Choose Thick-Cut Bacon**: Thick-cut bacon holds up better during cooking and ensures the bacon gets crispy without burning.
3. **Don’t Skip the Searing Step**: Searing the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin before roasting adds flavor and helps create a crispy crust.
4. **Baste with Glaze**: For extra flavor, baste the pork tenderloin with the glaze every 10-15 minutes as it roasts.
5. **Let the Pork Rest**: Let the pork tenderloin rest after cooking to keep it juicy and flavorful.
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## 7. Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
**Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin** is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
### **Side Dishes:**
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes are the perfect complement to the rich flavors of the pork.
– **Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or even mashed cauliflower are great side options.
– **Salads**: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the pork.
### **Beverage Pairings:**
– **Red Wine**: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs wonderfully with the savory bacon and tender pork.
– **Crisp Beer**: A cold, crisp beer like a pilsner or pale ale can complement the smoky bacon and sweet glaze.
– **Apple Cider**: For a non-alcoholic option, a cold glass of apple cider pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.
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## 8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
### Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
While pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness, you can also use pork loin if that’s what you have available. Just keep in mind that pork loin is a bit leaner and less tender than tenderloin.
### Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
### Can I freeze the leftover bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin?
Yes, you can freeze leftover bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin. Simply slice it and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to retain its crispy bacon.
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## 9. Conclusion
**Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin** is a showstopper of a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. The combination of juicy pork, crispy bacon, and a sweet, tangy glaze is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
By following the simple steps outlined in this article and keeping a few key tips in mind, you can easily create a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and elevate your next dinner with the unbeatable combination of bacon and pork.
