May 26, 2023
Grilling

Beer And Brown Sugar Pork Medallions

Name: Beer And Brown Sugar Pork Medallions
Prep time: 135 min
Cook time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 Pork Tenderloin (sliced into 1.5-2 inch pieces ); 1 12 oz. Beer; 1/3 cup Brown Sugar (light or dark ); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar; 2 cloves Garlic (sliced or smashed ); 1 tbsp. Dried Rosemary; 2 tsp. Dried Thyme; 1 tsp. Sea Salt; 1 tsp. Black Pepper; 1/2 tsp. Cayenne Pepper; Additional Salt & Pepper (as needed); 1/4 cup Olive Oil

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Indulge in the savory delight of Beer and Brown Sugar Pork Medallions, a tantalizing dish that combines the richness of pork with a hint of sweetness. Tender pork medallions are marinated in a flavorful blend of beer, brown sugar, and aromatic spices, infusing them with a mouthwatering taste.

Why This Recipe Works

Flavorful combination: The marriage of beer and brown sugar creates a delightful balance of flavors. The beer adds richness, while the brown sugar brings a touch of sweetness, resulting in a harmonious taste profile.
Tenderizing marinade: The marinade adds flavor and helps tenderize the pork medallions. The sweetness in the brown sugar and the acidity in the beer infuses the meat with deliciousness, making it succulent and juicy.
Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow if you’re new to grilling. But, with just a few ingredients, it allows the flavors of the pork, beer, and brown sugar to shine through without being overshadowed by complexity making it taste like a five-star meal.
Crowd-pleaser: The combination of savory and sweet flavors and the tender texture make this recipe a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that appeals to many tastes and will surely satisfy your guests. It’s perfect for a quiet dinner for two or served to a large group!

What Are Grilled Pork Tenderloin Medallions?

Grilled pork tenderloin medallions are small, round cuts of pork tenderloin that are typically marinated, seasoned, and then cooked on a grill. The pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat, making it perfect for slow smoking and searing to get optimal flavor.

Medallions are made from sliced tenderloin cut into uniform pieces, creating bite-sized slices that cook quickly and evenly (similar texture to pork chops). Grilled pork tenderloin medallions are often served as a main course or used in various dishes like salads, sandwiches, or wraps, offering a delicious and versatile protein option.

While you can marinate the pork tenderloin whole, I prefer to pre-cut them to maximize the marinade flavor in each piece.

Supplies Needed:

Large Container or Plastic Bag
Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Knife & Cutting Board
Tongs
Meat Thermometer

Ingredients:

Pork Tenderloin: Please note this is different than a pork loin. I recommend 1-2 pork tenderloins for the amount of marinade this recipe creates. If cooking for a larger group, double the marinade recipe.
Beer: Lagers or wheat beers work best here because they pair well with the pork and have a nice overall flavor. Always use what you like to drink to fit your palette.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works perfectly here.
Soy Sauce: You can also sub coconut aminos here as an alternative.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a little additional acidity and helps balance out the brown sugar.
Garlic Cloves: I recommend adding slices or smashed cloves to help add flavor.
Spices and Herbs: I use a combination of dried rosemary, dried thyme, and cayenne
Sea Salt and Black Pepper
Olive Oil

Preparing The Marinade:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the beer, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, spices, and herbs and mix well until combined.
Once combined, separate about 1/2 cup of the marinade and set it aside in a separate container. This will be used as a sauce to top the medallions. Do not use the marinade mixture that has come in contact with the raw pork for this. Store the extra marinade in the fridge.
Remove the pork tenderloin from the packaging and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
Use a sharp knife and cut equal size pieces around 1.5-2 inches thick.
Add the pork to the marinade and toss it well to combine. Store covered in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.

preparation instructions for Beer And Brown Sugar Pork Medallions

Grilling Instructions:

Preheat the smoker to 225 F. and set it for two-zone cooking.
Start by cooking down the reserved marinade by placing it into a small pot over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce until it is slightly syrupy, stirring occasionally. Remove it from the heat and set it aside in a small dish if desired.
Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Pat the pork medallions as dry as possible.
Lightly oil the pork medallions so they are evenly coated on all sides and lightly season with a little salt and pepper (this helps them get a nice crust).
Place the pork medallions onto the grill grates over indirect heat and smoke them until they reach an internal temperature of 145 F.
Baste the outside in a small amount of the reduction sauce and then flip halfway through, about 12-15 minutes per side. Time will vary depending on the size of the medallions, the temperature of the meat when it goes on the grill, etc. Use a meat thermometer to accurately check when they are cooked.
Remove the pork medallions from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Place them onto a plate with your favorite sides and top with a drizzle of the reduced beer and brown sugar sauce and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use any type of beer for the marinade?

Yes, you can use any type of beer for the marinade. Choose a beer that complements the flavors you desire, whether it’s a light lager, amber ale, stout, or any other variety.

How long should I marinate the pork medallions in the beer and brown sugar mixture?

It is recommended to marinate the pork medallions for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate them for up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor. Be mindful not to exceed the recommended time, as the acidity from the beer may start to break down the meat’s texture.

Can I substitute the brown sugar with a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or even granulated sugar. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile of the dish slightly.

Can I use the same marinade for basting while grilling?

It is generally not recommended to use the same marinade for basting, as it may contain raw meat juices. It’s best to reserve some of the marinade (per the instructions) before adding the meat and use that for basting instead.

What are some recommended side dishes or sauces to serve with beer and brown sugar grilled pork medallions?

Grilled vegetables, smoked potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes. For sauces, consider options like a tangy barbecue sauce (like this Guinness BBQ sauce), a citrus glaze, or a spicy mustard-based sauce to complement the flavors of the pork medallions.

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