Central Illinois Pork Tenderloin Recipes

MIDWEST PORK TENDERLOIN SANDWICH

Steps:

• To make the pork: cut 4 (1-inch slices) of pork; trim any exterior fat from edges.
• Put each slice of pork between pieces of plastic wrap.
• Using a wooden meat mallet, pound vigorously until each slice is very thin and about 10 inches across.
• Mix flour with salt and pepper in a pie plate.
• Heat ½-inch of oil in a deep 12-inch skillet to 365°.
• Dip each slice of pork in water, then in flour mixture.
• Pat both sides with cornmeal.
• Fry, one at a time, turning once, until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes total; drain on paper towels and keep warm until all are cooked.
• Serve prepared pork on buns with desired condiments.

CHEF-BOY-I-BE-ILLINOIS' PORK TENDERLOIN ROSA DI PARMA

Steps:

• Combine sage, garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
• Preheat oven to 425°F.
• Cut a lengthwise slit down center of tenderloin to within 1/2 inch of bottom. Open tenderloin so lays flat, then on each half make another lengthwise slit down the center to within 1/2 inches of bottom. Cover with wax paper and flatten to 1/4 inch thickness. You can use a meat mallet, or do as I do and save an empty wine bottle with a long neck (usually white wine) so you have a place to hold onto while whacking.
• Spread the flattened tenderloin with the spice mixture from the first step, using your palm to cover the entire surface. Then top the seasoned tenderloin with ham slices, the spinach and spread 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano over the spinach, leaving a 1-inch border. Starting with a long side, roll up tenderloin so the stuffing is in a spiral pattern; then tie the roasts at 2-inch intervals with kitchen string. I personally think it's easier to use toothpicks rather than string. Lightly season outside with salt and pepper (don't overdo it because the ham and parm are salty).
• Bake uncovered, at 425°F for 25-30 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F Transfer to serving platter, and allow to stand for 10 minutes before removing strings (or toothpicks) and slicing into four equal servings.