Pork Tenderloin Marinade Ideas

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When it comes to marinating pork tenderloin, there are many ways to go. While any marinade can work, a good marinade tenderizes the meat as it adds flavor. This is done through the use of acidic liquids, such as lemon juice, which help break the meat down to make it more tender. How long to marinate the pork depends on how strong you want the flavor. You'll get a hint of marinade flavor in as little as 30 minutes. Getting a stronger marinade flavor may take up to 12 hours.

Asian-Style Marinades

An Asian-style marinade for pork tenderloin is easy to do with a little help from classic Asian sauces, such as soy sauce. Mix soy sauce, coconut milk, peanut butter, lime juice and garlic to create a rich marinade. Make extra to keep some to one side to use as a creamy sauce. Combine teriyaki sauce with seasoned vinegar to create a quick marinade that brings out the sweetness of the pork. Stir rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, coriander and white pepper together for a light marinade with a hint of exotic spice.

Cajun-Style Marinades

Cajun marinades are known for having complex and spicy flavors, but they’re still quick to make. Combine lime juice, canola oil, red pepper, salt, paprika, parsley, garlic and thyme to create a spicy herb marinade with a hint of smoky flavor. Mix tomato juice, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, thyme and cumin to create a peppery marinade with a hint of sweetness. Stir lemon juice, lime juice, chicken broth, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, garlic, cumin and parsley together to create a citrus marinade with a spicy kick.

Italian-Style Marinades

Green herbs and tomatoes are the cornerstone of a tasty Italian marinade for pork tenderloin. Mix tomato juice, garlic, parsley, basil and oregano for a classic Italian marinade. Blend tomato sauce, sweet red wine, parsley, thyme and pepper for a sophisticated marinade that gives the pork a sweet twist. Combine tomato sauce, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, rosemary and black pepper to create a tangy marinade with a hint of smokiness.

Western-Style Marinades

Nothing says Western like the taste of a tangy and sweet barbecue marinade. Combine tomato sauce, white wine vinegar, honey, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt and cumin to create a tangy marinade with a rich flavor. Mix tomato juice, liquid smoke, molasses and garlic for a smoky marinade with a sweet touch. Blend ketchup, whiskey, lemon juice, molasses and red pepper for a sweet marinade with a little bite.

Mexican-Style Marinades

Peppers are a common ingredient in Mexican marinades for pork tenderloin. Blend tomato juice, lime juice, chipotle pepper, black pepper, cilantro and garlic to create a spicy marinade that gives the pork a hint of tangy flavor. Mix lemon juice, chicken broth, red pepper, cilantro and parsley for a light marinade that still takes you south of the border.