Imagine a dinner that transforms an ordinary pork tenderloin into a culinary masterpiece that's bursting with bold, unexpected flavors. This Air Fryer Coffee Citrus Pork Tenderloin isn't just a recipe—it's a flavor adventure that combines the rich, deep notes of ground coffee with bright, zesty citrus, creating a mouthwatering dish that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. In just 40 minutes, you'll craft a restaurant-quality meal that's incredibly easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pork tenderloin
- Ground coffee
- Brown sugar
- Orange zest
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, ensuring more even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine ground coffee, brown sugar, orange zest, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful dry rub.
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the spice rub adhere better.
- Brush the entire surface of the tenderloin with olive oil to help the spice rub stick and promote even browning.
- Generously coat the pork tenderloin with the coffee-citrus spice rub, pressing the mixture firmly into the meat to create a flavorful crust.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-4 minutes to ensure proper cooking temperature.
- Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket, making sure it's not overcrowded and has space for air circulation.
- Cook the tenderloin for 20-25 minutes, turning it halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the rested meat just before slicing to add a bright, citrusy finish.
- Slice the pork tenderloin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick medallions for maximum tenderness and serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork tenderloin rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Crust: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the meat, which helps the spice rub adhere and creates a beautiful, crispy exterior.
- Rub Technique Matters: Press the coffee-citrus spice rub firmly into the meat to maximize flavor penetration.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure your air fryer basket allows proper air circulation for even cooking and perfect browning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check internal temperature to avoid overcooking—145°F is the sweet spot for juicy, tender pork.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the tenderloin rest after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring each slice is incredibly moist and flavorful.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique guarantees the most tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture for your pork medallions.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
