Seared Pork Tenderloin with Cocoa Spice Rub
Infuse your dinner table with bold, unexpected flavors by making this Seared Pork Tenderloin with Cocoa Spice Rub. This recipe transforms a simple pork tenderloin into a gourmet masterpiece with the help of a robust spice blend featuring unsweetened cocoa powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and a hint of brown sugar for balance. The tenderloin is perfectly seared to create an irresistible crust and roasted to juicy perfection in the oven. For an extra touch of richness, melted butter and optional fresh rosemary infuse the dish with depth and warmth. Ready in just 35 minutes, this show-stopping main course is perfect for weeknight meals or elevated entertaining. Pair it with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a deliciously complete meal. Keywords: seared pork tenderloin, cocoa spice rub, pork recipes, gourmet dinner ideas, easy pork tenderloin recipe.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 piece (about 1 to 1.5 lbs) Pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon Brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Butter
- 1 sprig Fresh rosemary (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, combine the cocoa powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the spice rub.
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and coat it evenly with the spice rub, pressing it gently into the meat.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until a deep crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Add the butter to the skillet, along with the rosemary sprig if using, and spoon the melted butter over the pork for added flavor.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
Remove the pork tenderloin from the oven and let it rest in the skillet for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tender result.
Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve warm. Pair with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1205 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 61.1 g | 78% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.3 g | 92% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 419 mg | 140% | |
| Sodium | 4367 mg | 190% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 21.5 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.6 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.4 g | ||
| Protein | 143.2 g | 286% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 95 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 10.7 mg | 59% | |
| Potassium | 2935 mg | 62% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
