- The pork stays incredibly tender and juicy
- The sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky
- Minimal prep with maximum flavor
- Great for meal prep or leftovers
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 500–700g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
🍯 For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- 4–5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
🔪 Preparation Steps
1. Prep the Pork
Pat the pork tenderloin dry using paper towels. Season it evenly with salt and black pepper. This helps create a nice crust when searing.
2. Sear for Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Add the pork and sear on all sides until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
This locks in juices and builds flavor.
3. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix:
- Honey
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
- Vinegar
- Mustard (if using)
- Chili flakes
Stir until well combined.
🔥 Cooking Methods
🍳 Stovetop + Oven Method (Best Texture)
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- After searing, pour the honey garlic sauce over the pork in the pan.
- Transfer the pan to the oven.
- Roast for 15–20 minutes, occasionally spooning sauce over the pork.
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F).
🍳 All-Stovetop Method
- After searing, reduce heat to medium-low.
- Add the sauce and cover the pan.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with sauce.
✨ Finishing Touch
Remove the pork from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Slice into medallions and drizzle the thick, glossy honey garlic sauce over the top.
😋 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables
- Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal
- Spoon extra sauce over everything—it’s that good
💡 Pro Tips
- Don’t overcook—pork tenderloin is best slightly pink in the center
- Resting the meat keeps it juicy
- If sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to thicken
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor
🔥 Flavor Variations
- Asian-style twist: Add ginger and a splash of sesame oil
- Extra sticky glaze: Add 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with water
- Citrus kick: Replace vinegar with orange juice
- Spicy version: Increase chili flakes or add hot sauce
