Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/11 checked
4
servings
1 cup

hard wood chips

soaked

2 tbsp

cumin seeds

toasted

1 tbsp

fennel seed

toasted

1 tbsp

mustard seeds

toasted

1 tbsp

onion powder

1 tbsp

dried Mexican oregano

1 tbsp

salt

0.5 cup

chili powder

2 tbsp

cocoa

0.5 tbsp

ground pepper

16 unit

pork tenderloin

Step 1
~4 min

Soak hardwood chips in a bowl of water.

Step 2
~4 min

Toast cumin, fennel, and mustard seeds in a dry cast iron skillet until they begin to smoke (about 5 minutes).

Step 3
~4 min

Combine the toasted seeds and the remaining dry ingredients (except pork) in a spice grinder, mortar and pestle, or food processor.

Step 4
~4 min

Grind the ingredients to a powder.

Step 5
~4 min

Coat the pork tenderloin with the spice mixture.

Step 6
~4 min

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 7
~4 min

Prepare a charcoal grill.

Step 8
~4 min

When the coals have turned amber and become ashy on the outside, push them to one side.

Step 9
~4 min

Remove the hardwood chips from the water and pile them on top of the coals.

Step 10
~4 min

Position the grate on the grill and heat until the chips begin to smoke (about 10 minutes).

Step 11
~4 min

Sear the tenderloin over the coals on each side for 3 minutes.

Step 12
~4 min

Move the tenderloin to the side of the grill with no coals.

Step 13
~4 min

Cover the grill and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.

Step 14
~4 min

Let the tenderloin rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a deeper smoky flavor, use a combination of different hardwoods like hickory and mesquite.

Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Spice rub can be made ahead of time.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Strong
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with grilled vegetables and rice or quinoa.

Serve with a side of black beans and a fresh salsa.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled corn on the cob
Black beans
Mexican rice
Avocado salad

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Mexico-Inspired

Cultural Significance

Mole is a traditional Mexican sauce known for its complex flavors.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Dia de los Muertos
Cinco de Mayo

Occasion Tags

Dinner Party
Summer BBQ
Weeknight Meal

Popularity Score

70/100

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