Chinese Pork Tenderloin
Juicy pork tenderloins marinated in sherry, soy sauce, and aromatic spices, then broiled to perfection—an easy, flavorful dish perfect for casual dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sherry, soy sauce, crushed anise seed, and crushed fennel seed; marinate tenderloins for 1 to 2 hours, turning occasionally and keeping chilled.
- Broil tenderloins over a medium bed of charcoal, brushing with marinade before and after turning every 5 minutes, for a total of 25 minutes.
- Slice tenderloins into 1/2-inch thick slices and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use high-quality soy sauce and sherry. If you don't have sherry, rice wine or white wine can be good substitutes. For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. Keep an eye on the tenderloins while broiling to avoid overcooking; they should remain juicy. Additionally, slicing against the grain will ensure tender pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sliced pork tenderloin alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli And Carrot Stir-Fry for a colorful and nutritious side. For a refreshing finish, consider a light salad with sesame dressing. This dish also makes an excellent addition to a Mandarin Dinner, bringing vibrant flavors to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Pork Tenderloin contains roughly 217 calories, with 11g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), iron (75% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 813mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can substitute pork tenderloin with chicken breasts or even beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken may require longer to cook through, while beef may need less time depending on the cut.
What if I don't have fennel seed?
If you don't have crushed fennel seed, you can omit it or use a small amount of ground cumin or caraway seeds as a substitute. These spices can add a different but complementary flavor to the marinade.
Can I marinate the meat overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, enhancing the taste. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat may become overly soft.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).