Kansas-Style Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Apple Glaze

Introduction

Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this Kansas-Style Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Apple Glaze. This recipe combines the rich, juicy flavor of perfectly seared pork tenderloin with a sweet and tangy apple glaze. Using the Arteflame grill, we’ll sear the pork at over 1,000F for a perfect crust before finishing it on the flat cooktop to ensure a juicy, flavorful bite every time.

Ingredients

• 2 pork tenderloins
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Let the fire establish itself for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

1. Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels.
2. Rub them with melted butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Let them sit at room temperature while the grill heats up.

Step 3: Make the Apple Glaze

1. On the heated flat cooktop, pour the apple cider and apple cider vinegar.
2. Stir in the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes.
3. Let simmer until the mixture thickens to a glaze consistency.
4. Stir in a tablespoon of butter for a silky finish and set aside.

Step 4: Sear the Pork Tenderloin

1. Place the pork tenderloins on the center grill grate at over 1,000F.
2. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until a deep, brown crust forms.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

1. Move the seared pork tenderloins to the outer flat cooktop.
2. Baste with the apple glaze every few minutes.
3. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 135F.
4. Remove from the grill and let rest (it will continue cooking to a final temp of 145F).

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice the rested pork tenderloin.
2. Drizzle extra apple glaze over the slices.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Move food around the grill to utilize the different heat zones.
• Never cook the pork directly over an open flame to prevent burning.
• Butter enhances the flavor better than olive oil.
• Let the pork rest before slicing to lock in juices.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple: Swap out the apple cider for maple syrup and add cayenne pepper for heat.
2. Garlic Herb: Mix in fresh minced garlic and rosemary for an aromatic twist.
3. Balsamic Glaze: Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider for a rich, tangy finish.
4. Honey Mustard: Replace brown sugar with honey and add extra Dijon for tang.
5. Smoky BBQ: Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce instead of an apple glaze.

Conclusion

The Kansas-Style Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Apple Glaze is a game-changer. By utilizing the Arteflame grill’s high-heat center grate and flat cooktop, you can achieve a perfectly seared, juicy tenderloin bursting with flavor. With a variety of glaze options and optimal grilling techniques, you’ll impress everyone at your next cookout.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet potatoes
• Charred Brussels sprouts
• Buttery cornbread
• Fresh apple slaw
• A glass of Kansas-style apple cider or a smoky bourbon cocktail