Are you a fan of juicy and tender pork medallions? Do you often find yourself buying pre-cut meat from Costco?
Well, we have good news for you! Cooking Costco pork medallions is easier than you think. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and impressive meal that will leave your family and friends asking for more.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing and cooking Costco pork medallions, including tips on how to make them juicy and flavorful.
So, let’s get started!
How To Cook Costco Pork Medallions?
Step 1: Prep the Medallions
Begin by cutting the pork tenderloin into 12 slices, also known as medallions. Make sure to cut them evenly to ensure they cook evenly.
Next, combine salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning over each pork medallion and press down on the medallions to secure the seasoning and flatten them to an even thickness.
Step 2: Cook the Medallions
Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork medallions to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan as this will steam the meat instead of searing it.
Once cooked, remove the pork medallions from the skillet and set them aside on a platter.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Return the skillet to heat and slowly add in chicken broth, being careful of the smoke and steam. Scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a whisk or other utensil and continue to cook for one minute. Add a couple of pats of butter to slightly thicken the sauce.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Return the pork medallions to the skillet and cook for one minute to heat through, spooning sauce over them. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Pork Medallions From Costco
When it comes to choosing the right cut of pork medallions from Costco, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.
Firstly, look for pork tenderloin that is fresh and has a bright pink color. Check the sell-by date to ensure that it is not close to expiring.
Secondly, consider the size of the medallions. Thinner slices will cook faster but may dry out easily, while thicker slices will take longer to cook but may be juicier. It’s important to choose medallions that are evenly sliced to ensure they cook evenly.
Lastly, consider the fat content of the pork medallions. While some fat is necessary for flavor and juiciness, too much fat can make the dish greasy and unhealthy. Look for medallions with a moderate amount of marbling for the best results.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you choose the right cut of pork medallions from Costco and create a delicious and satisfying meal for yourself and your loved ones.
Preparing The Pork Medallions For Cooking
Before cooking the Costco pork medallions, it’s important to prepare them properly. This will ensure that they cook evenly and are packed with flavor.
To begin, cut the pork tenderloin into 12 even slices, also known as medallions. It’s essential to cut them evenly to ensure that they cook evenly.
Next, combine salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning over each pork medallion and press down on the medallions to secure the seasoning and flatten them to an even thickness. This will help the seasoning penetrate the meat and create a delicious crust when cooked.
Once the medallions are seasoned, heat oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork medallions to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan as this will steam the meat instead of searing it.
Once cooked, remove the pork medallions from the skillet and set them aside on a platter. This will allow them to rest and retain their juices before being served.
Now that the pork medallions are cooked, it’s time to make the sauce. Return the skillet to heat and slowly add in chicken broth, being careful of the smoke and steam. Scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a whisk or other utensil and continue to cook for one minute. Add a couple of pats of butter to slightly thicken the sauce.
Finally, return the pork medallions to the skillet and cook for one minute to heat through, spooning sauce over them. Garnish with parsley and serve. By following these steps, you can create perfectly cooked and flavorful Costco pork medallions every time!
Seasoning And Flavoring Options For Costco Pork Medallions
While the seasoning combo of thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper is a great option for pork medallions, there are also other seasoning and flavoring options to consider.
For a quick and easy option, try using a spice rub such as Sweet Mama Bold BBQ Rub. This will still provide delicious flavor without the need for marinating.
If you have time to marinate the pork medallions, consider using ingredients such as soy sauce and vinegar to tenderize the meat while balancing the acidity with brown sugar or honey. One marinade option that pairs well with pork is apple BBQ sauce.
When cooking pre-made Costco pork medallions, be aware of the strong herb flavor that comes with some options. If this is not to your liking, consider adding your own seasonings or herbs to customize the flavor to your preference.
Cooking Methods For Perfectly Juicy And Tender Pork Medallions
There are several cooking methods you can use to ensure that your pork medallions come out perfectly juicy and tender. Here are four common techniques:
1. Baking: Pork tenderloin should be cooked for a short time in a hot oven to prevent it from drying out. Bake pork medallions in a 400 degree Fahrenheit oven for 20-25 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the medallions and how long you seared them. For the best results, use an instant-read thermometer and remove the pork from the oven when it reaches 145 degrees.
2. Pan-searing: Season the pork with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and brown the pork evenly on both sides. Place the medallions on a baking sheet and cook for 18-20 minutes or until a thermometer reads an internal temperature of 145° F. Allow the pork to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Marinating: To enhance or add flavor, try marinating your pork medallions in an acid-based marinade (such as vinegar or citrus fruit juices or wine and fresh herbs) for at least 20 minutes. For best results, remove medallions from the fridge and set aside for 10 minutes to bring up to room temperature before cooking.
4. One-skillet method: This method is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with hardly any cleanup. Truss the pork tenderloins with butcher’s twine and marinate them in oil, spices, and herbs for at least 30 minutes (overnight for maximum flavor). Heat oil in a large frying pan or rondeau over high heat until it begins to smoke, then add in the pork tenderloins. Immediately turn the heat down to medium-high, add some unsalted butter, and cook for roughly 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown on all sides. Transfer the pan to the oven and cook for roughly 6-10 minutes or until it reaches 140° F. Remove the tenderloins and let them rest on a plate or cutting board for 4-5 minutes before slicing.
By following these cooking methods, you can ensure that your Costco pork medallions come out juicy, tender, and full of flavor every time!
Serving Suggestions And Pairings For Costco Pork Medallions
Now that you know how to cook Costco pork medallions, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Here are some suggestions and pairings to make your meal even more delicious:
1. Mashed Potatoes: Serve the pork medallions over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The silky mushroom gravy will pair perfectly with the potatoes.
2. Honey Roasted Carrots: Roast some carrots with honey and butter for a sweet and savory side dish that complements the pork medallions.
3. Parmesan Asparagus: Roast asparagus and sprinkle with parmesan cheese for a delicious and healthy side dish.
4. Italian Salad: Toss together a salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette for an Italian-inspired side dish.
5. Red Wine: Pair the pork medallions with a bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to enhance the flavors of the dish.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Grill some zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a tasty and colorful side dish that complements the pork medallions.
7. Garlic Bread: Serve garlic bread on the side for a delicious and satisfying addition to your meal.
With these serving suggestions and pairings, you can create a complete meal that will impress your guests or satisfy your family’s hunger. Enjoy!