How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in the Instant Pot: A Comprehensive Guide to Juicy and Flavorful Pork

Pork tenderloin is a lean and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Instant Pot pork tenderloin is a quick and easy way to prepare this delicious dish, resulting in tender, juicy pork that is bursting with flavor. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and recipe variations to help you create the perfect Instant Pot pork tenderloin.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound pork tenderloin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork: Remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 15 minutes. This will help it cook evenly. Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the tenderloin.

2. Create the Seasoning Rub: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork tenderloin.

3. Sear the Pork: Turn on the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Place the pork tenderloin in the pot and sear it on all sides until it is browned.

4. Deglaze the Pot: Once the pork is seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the chicken broth to the pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This will help prevent the Instant Pot from giving you a “burn” warning.

5. Pressure Cook the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin back in the pot and add the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” high pressure for 3 minutes.

6. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 12 minutes. This will help the pork continue to cook and become tender.

7. Make the Gravy: While the pork is resting, make the gravy. Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the pot and bring to a simmer. Stir constantly until the gravy thickens.

8. Serve: Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with the gravy. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Pork: Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, so it is important to not overcook it. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit when measured with a meat thermometer.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the pork is cooked to the proper temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork, avoiding any bones.

• Let the Pork Rest: After cooking, let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful pork.

Recipe Variations:

• Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the seasoning rub.

• Honey Dijon Pork Tenderloin: Increase the honey or maple syrup to 1/4 cup and omit the soy sauce.

• Spicy Pork Tenderloin: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning rub.

• BBQ Pork Tenderloin: Brush the pork tenderloin with your favorite BBQ sauce before cooking.

Instant Pot pork tenderloin is a quick, easy, and delicious way to prepare this versatile cut of meat. By following the step-by-step instructions and cooking tips provided in this guide, you can create a juicy, flavorful pork tenderloin that will impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to experiment with the recipe variations to find your favorite way to enjoy this dish. Happy cooking!