Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to prepare pork tenderloin?
Look no further than cutting it into strips!
This versatile cut of meat can be transformed into a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
But before you get started, it’s important to know the proper technique for cutting pork tenderloin into strips.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps and provide helpful tips along the way.
So grab your knives and let’s get started!
How To Cut Pork Tenderloin Into Strips?
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Start by cutting a pork tenderloin into 1/2″ rounds. Then, cut each round into 2-3 strips. The strips should be about 2-3 inches long or roughly the size of your pinky or ring finger.
Use a paper towel to pat the pork dry before adding the strips of pork to a bowl and toss in the chili oil before adding the ground ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss/stir until evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
Mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and mince or chop the garlic. Set both aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pork
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork strips in an even layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until there’s a small amount of pink remaining in the center. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully cooked (165oF internal temp). Transfer the cooked pork to a plate.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and toast until fragrant, about 30 seconds, before adding the sauce. Scrape any crispy bits of the bottom of the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens, about 45-60 seconds. Be sure to stir to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve
Turn off the heat, add the pork back to the skillet, and stir to coat the pork in the sauce. Serve with toasted sesame seeds, scallions, cilantro, and/or lime wedges.
Why Cut Pork Tenderloin Into Strips?
Cutting pork tenderloin into strips has several benefits. Firstly, it allows for even cooking and faster cooking time. The thinner strips of meat cook faster than a whole tenderloin, making it a great option for a quick and easy meal. Secondly, cutting the meat into strips allows for more surface area to be coated in seasoning and sauce, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Finally, cutting the meat into strips makes it easier to serve and eat, especially when using in dishes like stir-fries or kabobs. It also allows for portion control, as you can easily measure out the desired amount of meat per serving. Overall, cutting pork tenderloin into strips is a simple technique that can enhance the taste and presentation of your dish.
Tools You’ll Need
To cut a pork tenderloin into strips, there are a few tools you’ll need to make the process easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Cutting board: Use a plastic or teflon cutting board to avoid dulling your knives or scratching your counters.
2. Carving knife: A flexible carving knife is the best choice for trimming meat and making clean cuts. A Traditional 8-Inch Slicing/Carver Knife is recommended for this task.
3. Measuring spoons: You’ll need measuring spoons to accurately measure out the spices for the pork tenderloin.
4. Skillet: A large skillet is necessary for cooking the pork strips evenly.
5. Meat thermometer: To ensure that the pork is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking whole cuts of pork to 145°F as measured with a food thermometer placed in the thickest part of the meat.
6. Paper towel: Use a paper towel to pat the pork dry before seasoning it.
7. Small bowl: Use a small bowl to mix the sauce ingredients together.
8. Garlic press or mincer: If you’re using fresh garlic, a garlic press or mincer will make it easier to finely chop or mince the garlic.
9. Serving dish: Once the pork is cooked and coated in sauce, transfer it to a serving dish for presentation.
Prepping The Pork Tenderloin
Before cutting the pork tenderloin into strips, it’s important to prep the meat properly. Start by transferring the chilled pork to a cutting board. If any tenderloins are extra wide, cut in half lengthwise, then thinly slice all tenderloins crosswise into 1/8″-thick strips. Transfer to a large bowl.
The first thing to do before starting any kind of trimming process is to be sure that the knives to be used are sharp. This will make the process go more smoothly. Dull knives are not safe and will produce poor cuts.
Trim off any excess fat that is surrounding the meat. Once the excess fat has been trimmed off, the silverskin must be removed. The silverskin is the thin shiny membrane attached to the tenderloin. To remove, slip the tip of your knife under the silvery skin and start slicing back and forth with the sharp edge of the blade angled upward, keeping the membrane tight as you are cutting. Continue to slice the skin off in this manner until all the skin is removed.
If this shiny membrane layer is not removed it will shrink during cooking and cause an odd shaped roast, which may also result in a roast that is not cooked evenly.
When trying to cut thin slices, it is easier if you put the meat into the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour before slicing to help firm it up or if meat was frozen, slice before it is completely thawed.
When trimming or cutting any meat that requires you to hold the meat in place with your fingers, be sure that your fingertips are curved in toward the palm of your hand. Holding them in this manner will prevent them from getting in the way of the blade of the knife.
By following these prepping tips, you’ll be able to cut your pork tenderloin into strips with ease and ensure a delicious and evenly cooked final dish.
Tips For Cutting Pork Tenderloin Into Strips
Cutting pork tenderloin into strips can be a bit tricky, but with the right technique, it can be done easily. Here are some tips to help you cut pork tenderloin into strips:
1. Use a sharp knife: Before starting any kind of trimming process, make sure that the knives you will be using are sharp. Dull knives are not safe and will produce poor cuts.
2. Trim off excess fat: When preparing a pork tenderloin, trim off any excess fat that is surrounding the meat. Once the excess fat has been trimmed off, the silverskin must be removed.
3. Remove the silverskin: The silverskin is the thin shiny membrane attached to the tenderloin. To remove it, slip the tip of your knife under the silvery skin and start slicing back and forth with the sharp edge of the blade angled upward, keeping the membrane tight as you are cutting. Continue to slice the skin off in this manner until all the skin is removed.
4. Cut against the grain: When trimming a pork tenderloin into strips for stir-frying, cut into thin slices, cutting across the grain. This will help to break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
5. Freeze the meat: When trying to cut thin slices, it is easier if you put the meat into the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour before slicing to help firm it up or if meat was frozen, slice before it is completely thawed.
6. Hold meat properly: When trimming or cutting any meat that requires you to hold the meat in place with your fingers, be sure that your fingertips are curved in toward the palm of your hand. Holding them in this manner will prevent them from getting in the way of the blade of the knife.
By following these tips, you can easily cut pork tenderloin into strips for your favorite recipes like stir-fry or pork tacos.
Cooking Ideas For Pork Tenderloin Strips
Pork tenderloin strips are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some cooking ideas to inspire your next meal:
1. Stir Fry: Cut the pork tenderloin into strips and stir fry with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and broccoli. Add a flavorful sauce and serve over rice or noodles.
2. Tacos: Season the pork tenderloin strips with chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook in a skillet until browned and serve in tortillas with salsa, avocado, and cilantro.
3. Skewers: Thread the pork tenderloin strips onto skewers with vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions. Grill or broil until cooked through and serve with a dipping sauce.
4. Salad: Add sliced pork tenderloin strips to a salad for added protein and flavor. Top with your favorite dressing and toppings such as nuts, cheese, and dried fruit.
5. Sandwiches: Layer sliced pork tenderloin strips on bread with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a delicious sandwich.
No matter how you choose to cook them, pork tenderloin strips are a delicious and easy ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Experiment with different flavors and cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy them.
