Florida Citrus-Marinated Pork Tenderloin on the Grill

Introduction

Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors of Florida with this citrus-marinated pork tenderloin. Marinated in fresh citrus and herbs, then seared to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this recipe locks in juices and develops an incredible char. The reverse-searing method ensures a perfectly tender, juicy, and flavorful pork dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5 lbs each)
• Juice of 2 oranges
• Juice of 2 limes
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

1. In a large bowl, combine the orange, lime, and lemon juice along with the zest.
2. Add garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and melted butter.
3. Mix well to blend all flavors.

Step 2: Marinate the pork

1. Place the pork tenderloins in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it's fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or, ideally, overnight.

Step 3: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to establish.
4. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 4: Sear the pork

1. Remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Place the tenderloins on the center grill grate and sear each side for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Reverse-sear on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared pork to the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Position it in a medium-heat zone to slowly bring it up to the desired doneness.
3. Cook, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove the pork from the grill when it reaches 135°F.
2. Let it rest for 10 minutes as it continues to cook to a perfect 145°F.
3. Slice and serve warm.

Tips

• For deeper flavor, marinate the pork overnight.
• Use fresh citrus juices to maximize the zesty flavor.
• Ensure the grill is fully preheated before searing.
• Always remove the pork 15°F below the target temperature to prevent overcooking.
• Use melted butter instead of oil to enhance the richness of the sear.

Variations

• Spicy Citrus Pork: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper and 1 chopped jalapeño to the marinade.
• Honey-Balsamic Pork: Replace orange juice with balsamic vinegar and increase honey to 3 tbsp.
• Garlic Herb Delight: Double the garlic and add 1 tbsp Italian seasoning.
• Asian-Inspired Pork: Add 1 tbsp grated ginger and replace soy sauce with hoisin sauce.
• Tropical Pineapple Pork: Swap orange juice for pineapple juice and add 2 tbsp coconut aminos.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus with melted butter
• Roasted sweet potatoes caramelized on the cooktop
• Grilled pineapple slices for a tropical contrast
• A crisp Florida orange salad
• A refreshing glass of citrus-infused iced tea

Conclusion

Grilling this Florida-inspired citrus-marinated pork tenderloin on an Arteflame grill delivers an unmatched depth of flavor with a perfect sear. With the combination of fresh citrus, herbs, and a juicy texture, this pork tenderloin will become a favorite in your grilling repertoire. Enjoy it at your next outdoor gathering!