Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut that cooks quickly and absorbs flavours beautifully. When paired with a bold spice rub, it transforms into a dish that’s packed with warmth and depth. This spiced pork tenderloin recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can have a perfectly cooked, flavourful main on the table in under an hour.
Ingredients and Preparation
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 500g each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Preheat your oven to 200°C. In a small bowl, combine cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. This spice blend will give the pork a fragrant, smoky flavour with a hint of sweetness and warmth.
Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. Rub them all over with olive oil, then generously coat them with the spice mixture, pressing gently so it adheres well.
Cooking and Serving
Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and sear the pork tenderloins for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, golden crust.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15–20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin reads 63°C for medium doneness. For extra juiciness, avoid overcooking. Rest the pork for 5–10 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slice the tenderloin into medallions and serve. This spiced pork pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or couscous.
Tips for a Perfect Spiced Pork Tenderloin
- Don’t skip the resting period; it ensures juicy, tender meat.
- For even more flavour, marinate the pork with the spice rub for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking — pork tenderloin is lean and can dry out quickly if left too long in the oven.
This spiced pork tenderloin recipe delivers big flavour with minimal effort. Its aromatic blend of spices and perfectly juicy texture make it a standout dish for any occasion. Give it a try the next time you want to elevate your dinner with something simple yet satisfying.
