smithfield applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin cooking instructions

Smithfield’s Applewood smoked bacon elevates pork tenderloin, creating a delightful harmony of smoky and savory flavors․ This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion!

What Makes This Combination Special?

Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon imparts a uniquely sweet and smoky flavor profile to the otherwise mild pork tenderloin․ The bacon’s rich taste beautifully complements the tenderloin’s lean texture, creating a harmonious balance․ This pairing isn’t just about flavor; the bacon acts as a natural insulator during cooking, helping to retain moisture within the tenderloin․

Furthermore, the Applewood spice seasoning enhances the overall experience, adding depth and complexity․ This combination offers a delightful contrast of textures – crispy bacon against the succulent pork – making each bite incredibly satisfying; It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish!

Understanding the Ingredients

Smithfield Applewood bacon, pork tenderloin, and Applewood spice seasoning are key․ Quality ingredients ensure a flavorful and successful bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin dish․

Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon: A Profile

Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon brings a distinctive smoky sweetness to this recipe․ The bacon is crafted using real applewood chips during the smoking process, imparting a rich, natural flavor․ Its thick-cut slices provide a substantial wrap for the pork tenderloin, ensuring a satisfying texture․

This bacon isn’t just about flavor; it’s about quality․ Smithfield utilizes carefully selected pork and a time-honored smoking technique․ The result is bacon that crisps beautifully when cooked, adding a delightful contrast to the tender pork․ It’s a versatile ingredient, perfect for enhancing both sweet and savory dishes, but especially shines here․

Pork Tenderloin: Selection and Preparation

Selecting a quality pork tenderloin is crucial for this recipe․ Look for a tenderloin that is pinkish in color and firm to the touch, weighing around one to two pounds․ Before cooking, pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels; this ensures a good sear․

Remove any silver skin, a tough membrane that can make the pork chewy․ Trimming excess fat also contributes to a more tender result․ A quick sear on all sides before wrapping with bacon helps to develop flavor and lock in moisture․ Preparing the tenderloin properly sets the stage for a delicious final dish․

Applewood Spice Seasoning: Enhancing the Flavor

Applewood spice seasoning beautifully complements both the bacon and pork, amplifying the smoky notes․ A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of brown sugar creates a balanced profile․ Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick․

Generously rub the seasoning all over the pork tenderloin before wrapping it in bacon․ This ensures even distribution of flavor․ The seasoning penetrates the pork during cooking, resulting in a deeply flavorful and aromatic dish․ Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite spice combinations!

Recipe Overview: Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

This simple recipe combines Smithfield Applewood bacon with pork tenderloin for a flavorful main course․ It’s quick to prepare and delivers impressive results!

Yield and Prep Time

This delightful Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin recipe comfortably serves approximately four to six individuals, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings․ The total preparation time, encompassing ingredient gathering and the bacon-wrapping process, typically requires around 15 to 20 minutes․

However, allowing the tenderloin to rest for a short period after searing and before baking enhances the final result․ The overall cooking duration, including searing and baking, generally spans between 25 to 30 minutes, contingent upon the desired level of doneness․ Therefore, anticipate a total time commitment of roughly 40-50 minutes from start to finish․

Skill Level and Cuisine

This Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin recipe is categorized as being of intermediate skill level․ While not overly complex, it requires basic cooking techniques such as searing and baking․ Familiarity with handling raw pork and judging internal temperatures is beneficial․ Novice cooks can certainly succeed with careful attention to detail and following the instructions closely․

The cuisine is broadly classified as American, with influences from classic comfort food․ The combination of smoky bacon and tender pork creates a hearty and satisfying dish․ It’s versatile enough to pair with various side dishes, lending itself to both casual and slightly more formal dining experiences․

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin․ Searing, wrapping, seasoning, and baking are key to a perfect result!

Step 1: Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

Begin by removing the pork tenderloin from its packaging and placing it on a clean cutting board․ Pat the tenderloin completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a good sear․ Ensure any silver skin is removed, as it can become tough during cooking․

Some recipes suggest reserving bacon bits and juices from the packaging for added flavor, though this is optional․ The tenderloin should be trimmed of excess fat․ Preparing the meat properly sets the stage for a flavorful and tender final dish, ready for the Applewood bacon wrap!

Step 2: Wrapping with Applewood Bacon

Lay out slices of Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon, slightly overlapping each piece, to create a surface large enough to fully encase the pork tenderloin․ Tightly wrap the bacon around the tenderloin, ensuring complete coverage․

Secure the bacon with toothpicks or butcher’s twine at regular intervals – approximately every inch – to prevent unraveling during cooking․ For enhanced flavor, some cooks incorporate chopped bacon directly into the seasoning blend․ A secure wrap guarantees even cooking and maximum bacon flavor infusion!

Step 3: Seasoning the Tenderloin

Generously sprinkle the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin with Applewood Spice Seasoning, ensuring even distribution across the entire surface․ Consider adding a touch of black pepper or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor complexity․

Pat the seasoning gently into the bacon to help it adhere․ Some recipes suggest incorporating finely chopped bacon bits into the seasoning mix for intensified smoky notes․ Proper seasoning is crucial for maximizing the savory profile of this dish, complementing the Smithfield bacon beautifully․

Step 4: Searing the Tenderloin

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat․ Once shimmering, carefully place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the hot skillet․ Sear on all sides – approximately 2-3 minutes per side – until the bacon begins to crisp and turn golden brown․

This searing process creates a flavorful crust and helps to lock in the juices․ Avoid overcrowding the skillet; sear in batches if necessary․ The goal is to achieve a beautiful color without fully cooking the tenderloin through, as it will finish in the oven․

Step 5: Baking to Perfection

Transfer the skillet with the seared tenderloin directly to the preheated oven․ Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness․ Using an oven-safe skillet minimizes cleanup and ensures even cooking․

During baking, the bacon will continue to crisp, infusing the pork with its smoky applewood flavor․ Monitor the tenderloin closely to prevent overcooking, which can result in dryness․ A meat thermometer is essential for accurate results․

Temperature and Doneness

Achieving the perfect internal temperature is key! Aim for 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, ensuring a juicy and flavorful Smithfield Applewood bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin․

Internal Temperature Guidelines

Ensuring your Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin reaches a safe and delicious internal temperature is crucial․ The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for pork, followed by a three-minute rest time․

However, many chefs prefer a slightly lower temperature for optimal tenderness․ For medium-rare, aim for 135°F to 140°F (57°C to 60°C)․ Medium is 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C), and well-done is above 145°F (63°C)․

Remember that carryover cooking will continue to raise the temperature slightly after removing the tenderloin from the oven, so account for this when checking doneness․

Checking for Doneness

Accurately assessing doneness is key to a perfectly cooked Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin․ The most reliable method is using an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin, avoiding any bacon․

Ensure the probe doesn’t touch bone․ Visual cues can also help; the meat should be slightly pink inside for medium-rare, and firm to the touch․

Remember carryover cooking – the temperature will rise 5-10°F after resting․ Allow the tenderloin to rest for at least three minutes before slicing and serving․

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Smithfield Applewood bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin with roasted fingerling potatoes, creamy horseradish aioli, or a vibrant green salad for a complete meal!

Recommended Side Dishes

Complement the rich flavors of Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin with carefully selected side dishes․ Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus, offer a delightful contrast in texture and taste․ Creamy mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes provide a comforting and satisfying accompaniment․

For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing․ Fingerling potatoes, as seen in various recipes, are also an excellent choice, adding a rustic touch․ Don’t underestimate the power of simple steamed rice to absorb the delicious pan juices!

Sauces and Garnishes

Enhance your Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin with complementary sauces and garnishes․ A creamy horseradish aioli, as suggested in some recipes, adds a delightful kick and richness․ A simple pan sauce, made from the drippings in the skillet, concentrates the savory flavors beautifully․

Fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, provide a vibrant aroma and visual appeal․ A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a touch of freshness․ Consider a maple glaze for a touch of sweetness, especially if incorporating baked beans alongside the tenderloin․

Safety and Recall Information (Smithfield Bacon)

Always check for recent Smithfield bacon recall notices before cooking․ Food safety is paramount; ensure your bacon is from a safe, un-recalled batch!

Recent Recall Notices

Staying informed about potential recalls is crucial for food safety․ In May 2022, Smithfield Packaged Meats Corp․ initiated a recall of approximately 185,610 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) bacon topping products․ This recall stemmed from concerns regarding potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination․

Consumers should verify if their Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon is affected by checking the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) website for the latest updates and specific product details․ Always prioritize your health and discard any potentially recalled products immediately․ Regularly monitoring FSIS announcements ensures a safe cooking experience․

Food Safety Practices

Prioritizing food safety is paramount when preparing Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon pork tenderloin․ Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw pork and bacon․ Prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other ingredients․

Ensure the pork tenderloin reaches a safe internal temperature, as detailed later in this guide․ Properly refrigerate any leftover cooked tenderloin promptly, and consume it within a safe timeframe․ Following these practices minimizes risks and guarantees a delicious, worry-free meal․

Variations and Customizations

Experiment with different spice rubs or create a flavorful glaze! Maple syrup or a horseradish aioli beautifully complement the Smithfield bacon and pork․

Adding Different Spices

Beyond the classic Applewood spice seasoning, explore a world of flavor! Consider a smoky paprika for enhanced depth, or a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick․ Garlic powder and onion powder create a savory base, while herbs like rosemary or thyme add aromatic complexity․

For a sweeter profile, incorporate brown sugar or a dash of cinnamon․ Experiment with Italian seasoning or a Cajun blend for unique twists․ Remember to adjust quantities to your preference, ensuring the spices complement, not overpower, the Smithfield bacon’s smoky essence and the pork tenderloin’s delicate flavor․

Glazes and Marinades

Elevate your Smithfield Applewood bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin with a flavorful glaze or marinade! A maple-mustard glaze offers a sweet and tangy contrast, while a balsamic reduction adds sophisticated depth․ For a marinade, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor profile․

Consider a fruit-based glaze, like apricot or peach preserves, for a summery touch․ Marinating the pork tenderloin for at least 30 minutes before wrapping in bacon infuses it with extra flavor․ Ensure the glaze is applied during the final baking stage to prevent burning․

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If bacon isn’t crispy, increase searing time or broil briefly․ For dry pork, reduce baking time and ensure adequate internal temperature monitoring during cooking․

Bacon Not Crispy Enough

Achieving perfectly crispy Smithfield Applewood smoked bacon is crucial for this dish․ If your bacon remains soft, several adjustments can be made․ First, ensure the skillet is sufficiently hot during the initial searing process; a higher heat renders more fat․

Secondly, consider extending the searing time, carefully monitoring to prevent burning․ Alternatively, after baking, briefly broil the tenderloin, watching closely․ Finally, using thicker-cut bacon naturally requires a longer cooking duration to achieve desired crispness․ Remember to pat the bacon dry before wrapping to aid in rendering fat․

Pork Tenderloin Too Dry

A dry pork tenderloin can detract from this flavorful dish․ To prevent this, ensure accurate oven temperature and avoid overbaking․ Utilize a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature closely, removing the tenderloin promptly when it reaches the recommended doneness․

Consider briefly marinating the pork beforehand in a simple oil and herb mixture․ Additionally, searing the tenderloin on all sides helps to seal in moisture․ Resting the cooked tenderloin for 5-10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and succulent final product․