Cooking pork medallions with garlic butter and rosemary is a recipe that blends simplicity and elegance, making it a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish combines the savory flavors of pork with the aromatic notes of garlic and rosemary, creating a meal that is both satisfying and memorable. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of pork tenderloin, cut into medallions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Medallions
- Season the Pork:
- Begin by cutting the pork tenderloin into medallions, about 1-inch thick.
- Season each medallion generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Allow the medallions to rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning, enhancing their flavor.
Heating the Skillet
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. Heating the skillet properly ensures a good sear on the medallions, locking in the juices and flavor.
Searing the Pork
- Sear the Medallions:
- Place the pork medallions in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the medallions to steam rather than sear.
- Sear the medallions for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a nice, golden-brown crust. This searing process is crucial as it develops the rich, caramelized flavors on the pork.
Adding Butter and Aromatics
- Introduce Butter and Herbs:
- Once the medallions are seared, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add the unsalted butter to the skillet. As the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sprigs of fresh rosemary.
- These aromatics will infuse the butter, creating a flavorful base for the medallions.
Finishing the Dish
- Baste the Medallions:
- Tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the pork medallions with the garlic-rosemary butter. Basting keeps the pork moist and allows it to absorb the rich, aromatic flavors of the garlic and rosemary.
- Continue to cook the medallions for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking the pork to this temperature ensures it is juicy and safe to eat.
- Resting the Pork:
- Remove the medallions from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
- Serving the Medallions:
- Serve the garlic butter pork medallions with a drizzle of the remaining butter from the skillet. This extra touch adds a burst of flavor to the dish.
- Garnish with the cooked rosemary sprigs for an elegant presentation.
- Accompaniments:
- These medallions pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- For a complete meal, add a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-rosemary butter.
Tips for Success:
- Quality Ingredients: Using fresh rosemary and high-quality pork tenderloin makes a significant difference in the dish’s flavor.
- Proper Searing: Ensure the skillet is hot enough to sear the medallions properly. A good sear locks in juices and enhances flavor.
- Butter and Aromatics: Adding butter, garlic, and rosemary towards the end of cooking prevents them from burning and ensures they infuse the pork with their aromatic flavors.
- Resting Time: Allowing the pork to rest after cooking is crucial. It helps retain the juices and makes the meat more tender.
Variations:
- Herb Variations: While rosemary pairs wonderfully with pork, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Lovers: If you love garlic, consider adding an extra clove or two. Roasting the garlic before adding it to the butter can also add a sweet, mellow garlic flavor.
- Wine Reduction: For an elevated twist, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the butter and aromatics. This adds a complex depth of flavor to the dish.
In conclusion, garlic butter pork medallions with rosemary is a dish that impresses with its simplicity and depth of flavor. The combination of seared pork, aromatic garlic, and fresh rosemary creates a meal that is both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every bite of this delightful dish.
