Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Step 1

Preheat and Prepare: Initiate the cooking process by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius). Prepare the pork tenderloin by trimming any excess fat and pierce the meat at several points with a fork to enhance flavor absorption.

Step 2

Marinate: In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, minced thyme, minced rosemary, salt, and pepper with honey, soy sauce, orange juice, and minced garlic to create the marinade. Coat the pork tenderloin evenly with the marinade, ensuring thorough coverage.

Step 3

Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-proof skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the pork tenderloin to the skillet. Sear the meat until golden brown on all sides, rotating every 2-3 minutes to achieve an even crust.

Step 4

Roast: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for 18-20 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and reaches the desired level of doneness.

Step 5

Prepare the Sauce: While the pork is roasting, prepare the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Heat over low heat, whisking continuously until the ingredients are well combined and the sauce begins to simmer.

Step 6

Thicken the Sauce: Dissolve the cornstarch in water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 7

Baste and Broil: Once the pork is removed from the oven, generously baste it with the prepared honey garlic sauce. Return the skillet to the oven, setting it to broil. Broil the pork for an additional 3 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

Step 8

Rest and Serve: After broiling, allow the pork tenderloin to rest for 4-5 minutes, covered, to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice the pork thickly and garnish with additional chopped thyme and rosemary before serving.