Fried Pork Tenderloin Sandwich (A Midwest Favorite)
Overview:
🕒 Cook Time: 8 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 23 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4 sandwiches
🥘 Category: Lunch/Snacks
🔍 Keywords: Pork, Meat, < 30 Mins, Deep Fried
Description:
Indulge in the savory delight of a Midwest classic, the Fried Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, originating from America’s Heartland and perfected in Hannibal, Missouri. This crispy, golden-brown creation is a culinary gem that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin, sliced into 3/4 inch pieces
- Water
- Bouillon
- Cracker meal
- 4 hamburger buns
- Your choice of condiments (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, mustard, mayo, etc.)
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare Pork Slices: Begin by cutting the pork tenderloin into slices approximately 3/4 inch thick. |
| 2 | Tenderize: Pound each slice until they reach about 1/4 inch thickness, ensuring tender and uniform pieces. |
| 3 | Set Up Dredging Stations: In two separate dishes, set up your dredging stations. Place the cracker meal in one dish, preferably using aluminum pie pans for easy cleanup. In the second dish, pour water and stir in the bouillon to create a flavorful brine. |
| 4 | Dredge Pork Slices: Dip each pork slice first into the bouillon water, allowing it to absorb the rich flavor, then coat thoroughly in the cracker meal, ensuring an even and crispy crust. |
| 5 | Coat Well: Make sure each slice is generously coated with the cracker meal for that satisfying crunch. |
| 6 | Fry to Perfection: Heat your fry daddy or deep fryer to 375°F, or alternatively, use a deep pan for frying. Carefully place the coated pork slices into the hot oil and fry until they turn a beautiful golden brown, ensuring they are cooked through. |
| 7 | Drain Excess Oil: Once fried to perfection, remove the pork slices from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. |
| 8 | Assemble Sandwiches: To serve, place each crispy pork slice onto a hamburger bun and garnish with your favorite condiments, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, mustard, or mayo. |
| 9 | Serve and Enjoy: Your Fried Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them up for a satisfying lunch or snack that’s sure to please. |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 120.3 per serving
- Fat Content: 1.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 227.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 21.3g
- Fiber Content: 0.9g
- Sugar Content: 2.7g
- Protein Content: 4.1g
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider seasoning the cracker meal with your favorite spices or herbs before dredging the pork slices.
- If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the breaded pork slices in the oven instead of deep-frying them.
- Experiment with different types of buns or bread for unique flavor combinations.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy crust.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw, potato chips, or fries for a classic Midwestern meal experience.
Conclusion:
The Fried Pork Tenderloin Sandwich is a beloved delicacy that captures the essence of Midwestern comfort food. With its crispy exterior, tender pork, and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whip up a batch today and savor the taste of America’s Heartland in every bite!
