Spiced Colorado Pork Tenderloin on the Arteflame

Introduction

This Spiced Colorado Pork Tenderloin is a mouthwatering dish grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. Coated in Colorado honey and a bold spice blend, this pork tenderloin delivers an irresistible caramelized crust with juicy, tender meat inside. By searing it at 1,000°F on the center grill grate and finishing it gently on the flat cooktop, you'll achieve steakhouse-quality results in your backyard.

Ingredients

• 1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp Colorado honey
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh thyme (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches searing temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the pork tenderloin

1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the tenderloin with Colorado honey, ensuring it's evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle the spice blend all over the tenderloin, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Sear the pork tenderloin

1. Place the pork tenderloin on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes per side, turning to sear all sides.
2. The intense heat will create a beautiful crust, locking in the juices.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the griddle

1. Move the seared pork onto the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Add butter around the tenderloin and let it melt, basting the pork as it cooks.
3. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (for medium) or 145°F (for well-done).

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Remove the pork tenderloin from the grill when its internal temperature is 15°F below the final desired temperature.
2. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
3. Slice and garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Tips

• Always let your meat rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness without guessing.
• Apply honey first so the spices stick evenly to the tenderloin.
• For a deeper smoky flavor, use hardwoods like oak or hickory.
• Baste the pork with melted butter as it cooks to keep it moist.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle: Add 1 tsp chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy kick.
2. Herb-Crusted: Mix in dried rosemary and thyme for an herby crust.
3. Garlic Butter: Replace honey with roasted garlic butter before cooking.
4. Citrus Honey: Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice for a bright, sweet glaze.
5. Maple Dijon: Replace honey with maple syrup and add 1 tbsp Dijon mustard.

Conclusion

Grilling Spiced Colorado Pork Tenderloin on the Arteflame is an unforgettable experience that brings out incredible flavors and textures. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors makes this a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon butter
• Charred sweet potatoes with cinnamon
• Classic grilled corn on the cob
• Seared Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
• A bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon