Blackened Pork Bites Recipe
Unleash the bold, irresistible flavors of these Blackened Pork Bites, packed with a rich spice blend that forms a delicious crust around tender cubes of pork tenderloin. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Enjoy lean protein and essential nutrients with every bite. Ready to wow your family and friends? Dive into the full recipe and learn how to make these tasty bites at home!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh lime wedges for serving
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a large bowl, mix together smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Pork: Add the cubed pork tenderloin to the bowl, followed by olive oil. Toss the pork until each piece is evenly coated with the spice blend.
- Sear the Pork: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork cubes in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Sear the pork bites for 4-5 minutes per side, until they form a nice blackened crust and are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the blackened pork bites with fresh lime wedges and garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.