Pork Medallions Recipes

Pork medallions, the lean and tender slices cut from the pork tenderloin lend themselves beautifully to quick and easy meals and they are also a budget-friendly option for busy households.

Come with us on a journey to explore the basics of pork tenderloin medallions and their versatility in cooking, and learn a few expert tips to elevate your dining experience to new heights!

Pork medallions are small, round, and typically 1 to 2 inches thick slices of meat cut from the pork tenderloin, the most tender part of the animal. This cut is known for its lean, delicate texture and mild flavour, making it a prime candidate for a plethora of quick cooking methods and flavour combinations.

Nutritional Benefits of Pork Medallions

Pork medallions are not only delicious but also offer a wealth of nutritional benefits. They are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. Additionally, pork medallions are rich in vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, which are crucial for brain function and energy levels. They also provide important minerals like zinc, selenium, and iron, supporting immune function and overall well-being.

Tips for Selecting the Best Pork Medallions

• Look for Colour and Marbling: Select pork medallions that have a pale pink hue with minimal marbling. While some marbling is beneficial for flavour, too much can indicate a higher fat content, which is less desirable in this lean cut.
• Check for Freshness: The pork should smell fresh and not have any sour or off-putting odours. The packaging should be intact, with no tears or leaks, and the meat should not be sitting in pooled liquid.
• Uniformity in Size: Choose medallions that are uniform in thickness and size. This consistency helps ensure that they cook evenly, preventing some pieces from becoming overcooked while others are just right.
• Consider the Source: If possible, opt for pork that is sustainably raised and free from added hormones or antibiotics, such as Specially Selected Pork from Scotland. This not only supports ethical farming practices but can also contribute to the quality and flavour of the meat.

Whether you are planning a simple weeknight supper or a more elaborate dinner for guests, pork medallions can be a perfect choice for an easy pork recipe that is sure to impress.

Tips for Preparing and Cooking Pork Medallions

To ensure your pork medallions are tender and juicy, consider these essential preparation and cooking tips before you start.

• Bring to Room Temperature: Before cooking, let the pork medallions sit out for about 15 to 30 minutes to reach room temperature. This step ensures more even cooking, reducing the risk of a tough exterior with an undercooked interior.
• Pat Dry: Use paper towels to pat the medallions dry before seasoning or marinating. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a better sear in the pan.
• Don’t Overcook: Pork medallions cook quickly due to their size and tenderness. They are best enjoyed when cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. This results in a slightly pink centre that is moist and flavourful.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked medallions to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This rest period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is succulent.

Marinating vs. Seasoning

When you cook pork medallions, both marinating and seasoning can enhance its flavour in different ways.

Marinating:

Marinating involves soaking the medallions in a mixture of acid (like vinegar or citrus juice), oil, and herbs/spices for several hours or even overnight. This process not only infuses the pork with flavour but also tenderises the meat, making it even more succulent. However, avoid overly acidic or long marination times, as they can make the meat mushy.

Seasoning:

Seasoning typically refers to applying herbs, spices, salt and pepper to the meat's surface before cooking. It provides a quick, effective way to enhance flavour without the need for advanced preparation. For pork medallions, simple seasoning combinations can include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary

Classic Pan-Seared Pork Medallions Recipe

This classic pork tenderloin recipe showcases the beauty of this wonderful cut of meat. With only a handful of storecupboard ingredients, you will be able to feed a crowd in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork loin, sliced into 1-inch thick medallions
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional: Fresh parsley to garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Loin Medallions: If you haven't done so already, slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions. Season both sides of each medallion generously with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. You want the pan hot enough so the pork sizzles when it touches it, but not so hot that the oil smokes.
3. Sear the Medallions: Place the pork medallions in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust. Avoid moving the medallions around as they cook to ensure a good sear.
4. Add Flavour: Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the pan, spooning the melted butter and garlic over the tender pork medallions as they finish cooking.
5. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest medallion. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once reached, remove the medallions from the pan and let them rest on a plate for 3 minutes. This will ensure juicy pork medallions in your finished meal.
6. Create a Quick Jus: You can use the pan juices with a slash of chicken broth or vegetable broth to create a simple pan sauce in a few minutes to go with your meal.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a piece of crusty bread.

Tips for a Perfect Sear:

• For pan frying: Ensure your pork medallions are dry and well-seasoned before they hit the pan.
• Overcrowding: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to allow each medallion enough space for even cooking and a proper sear.
• Don't touch it: Resist the urge to flip the medallions too soon; give them time to develop a crust before turning.

Enjoy this classic and elegantly simple dish that is perfect for a weekday dinner yet sophisticated enough for entertaining guests.

The Versatility of Pork Medallions

Pork medallions offer a canvas for a myriad of flavours and cooking techniques that span cultures and continents. Their quick cooking time, tender texture, and mild flavour make them an ideal choice for a variety of dishes, from classics to innovative global recipes. They can be substituted with pork chops for these recipes too.

Here are a few suggestions:

Classic Dishes:

In classic Western cuisine, pork medallions are often the star of the plate, seared to perfection and served with rich sauces or simple, fresh sides. They are a firm favourite in dishes like the elegant Pork Medallions with Mushroom Sauce or the classic comfort food of Pork Medallions in Creamy Dijon Sauce. These recipes highlight the pork's natural flavours while complementing them with subtle yet impactful seasonings and accompaniments.

Mediterranean Flavours:

Venturing into the Mediterranean, pork medallions adapt beautifully to the vibrant flavours of the region. Marinate pork tenderloin medallions in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grill or pan-fry them to perfection. Served alongside a Greek salad or atop a bed of herby and zesty couscous, there is nothing like these delicious pork medallions to encapsulate the sunny, fresh flavours of the Mediterranean.

Asian Inspirations:

In Asian kitchens, pork medallions take on a completely new dimension with the use of bold sauces and spices. For instance, in a stir-fry, they can be quickly cooked and tossed with vegetables in a savoury soy or hoisin sauce. Alternatively, they can be glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce, incorporating ingredients like ginger, honey, and chilli for an Asian vibe.

Latin American Twists:

Latin American cooking introduces pork medallions to a world of robust and hearty flavours. Marinated in a mix of citrus, garlic, and bold smoky spices, they can be seared and served with a side of black beans and rice, embodying the essence of Latin cuisine. Or, they could be topped with fresh salsa or chimichurri, adding a bright and herbaceous note to the dish.

Fusion Creations:

Pork medallions also lend themselves perfectly to fusion dishes, where they act as a bridge between different culinary traditions. Imagine a dish where East meets West, like pork medallions with a miso-maple glaze, marrying the umami flavours of Japan with the comforting sweetness of North American maple.

The versatility of pork medallions lies in their ability to be a blank canvas while possessing enough character to stand out in a dish. Whether you are craving something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, pork medallions offer endless possibilities to broaden your culinary horizons and impress your dinner guests.

Why Choose Specially Selected Pork

When it comes to selecting meat for your recipes, the origin and quality can make a significant difference in flavour, texture, and the overall dining experience. Specially Selected Pork from Scotland stands out as a prime choice for several reasons:

1. Commitment to Quality and Traceability:

Specially Selected Pork is not just any pork; it is a product of stringent quality standards and rigorous traceability protocols. Each cut is sourced from farms that adhere to the highest levels of animal welfare and sustainable farming practices. When you choose Specially Selected Pork, you are guaranteed a product that is fully traceable back to the farm of origin, ensuring you know exactly where your meat comes from.

2. Exceptional Animal Welfare Standards:

Animal welfare is at the heart of Make It Scotch. Scottish farmers are dedicated to providing a nurturing and natural environment for their pigs, which includes spacious living conditions and a diet that promotes health and well-being. These high welfare standards contribute to the ethical treatment of animals and also result in superior meat quality, characterised by its tenderness and rich flavour.

3. Enhanced Flavour and Texture:

The care and attention given to the pigs directly influence the quality of the meat. Specially Selected Pork is known for its succulent texture and deep, robust flavour. The pork's natural juiciness and tenderness make it a versatile ingredient that can shine in a variety of dishes, from simple weeknight suppers to gourmet meals.

4. Supporting Sustainable Farming Practices:

By choosing Specially Selected Pork, you are also supporting Scottish farmers who are committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. These practices benefit the local ecosystem and ensure the long-term viability of the farming community, contributing to a healthier planet and a more sustainable food system.

5. A Badge of Quality:

When you see the Specially Selected Pork label, you can be confident that you are getting a product that has met rigorous standards. This badge of quality is your assurance that the pork you are purchasing is not only delicious but also ethically and sustainably produced.

Incorporating Specially Selected Pork into your recipes is guaranteed to elevate your cooking to new heights whether you are preparing a simple stir-fry or an elaborate dinner party meal.

Where Can I Buy Specially Selected Pork Near Me?

If you have been inspired to get cooking with this delicious ingredient and you are wondering where you can buy Specially Selected Pork, look no further!

With the help of our user-friendly map, you can now get your hands on Specially Selected Pork in seconds.

Simply enter your postcode, and the map will guide you to the nearest Scotch meat supplier in your area. It is as simple as that!

What are you waiting for? Let's get cooking!