Pork Fillet Medallions: A Recipe for Restaurant-Quality at Home
Are you looking for a delicious and impressive meal to cook at home? Look no further! This recipe for pork fillet medallions is sure to impress your family and friends. These tender, juicy medallions are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit a range of tastes and preferences. Perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or even a weeknight treat, this recipe is a winner.
What You'll Need:
This recipe provides a great base, easily adaptable to your own spice preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork fillet, trimmed of excess fat and silver skin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavour)
- Optional: 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or other herbs like thyme)
Preparing the Pork Medallions:
The key to perfectly cooked pork medallions is preparation and even cooking.
Step 1: Preparing the Pork
- Slice the pork fillet: Cut the pork fillet into 1-inch thick medallions. Try to make them as even as possible for consistent cooking.
- Season generously: Season both sides of the medallions with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and your chosen herbs. Make sure to season generously – the spices will enhance the natural flavour of the pork.
Step 2: Cooking the Pork Medallions
There are a few ways to cook pork medallions, each offering a slightly different result:
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Pan-frying: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the medallions for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned. Reduce heat to medium, and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This method gives you a great sear and keeps the medallions juicy.
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Oven-baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned medallions in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This method is great for cooking multiple medallions evenly.
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Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the medallions for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This method adds a delicious smoky flavour.
Step 3: Resting the Pork
Once cooked, remove the medallions from the heat and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy medallions.
Serving Suggestions:
Pork fillet medallions are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide array of sides. Some suggestions include:
- Creamy mushroom sauce: A classic pairing that elevates the dish.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the pork beautifully.
- Potato gratin: A rich and comforting side dish.
- Salad: A fresh and light salad adds a nice contrast to the richness of the pork.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When pan-frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and result in stewing rather than searing.
- Use a meat thermometer: The most accurate way to ensure your pork is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer.
- Let it rest: Allowing the pork to rest is crucial for achieving tender and juicy results.
This recipe for pork fillet medallions is a surefire way to impress your guests and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
