ChefXi OfficialTender pork tenderloin marinated in a smoky chipotle-honey glaze, grilled to perfection and served with a vibrant, charred tomatillo salsa verde. A soulful dinner that bridges the gap between American BBQ and Mexican street food heritage.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced chipotle, honey, garlic, lime juice, and smoked paprika. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin and let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
If you have time, marinate the pork in the fridge for up to 4 hours for a deeper essence of smoke.
While the pork marinates, prepare the salsa. Place the tomatillos, jalapeno, and onion slices on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until charred and softened.
The char is where the soul of the salsa lives—don't be afraid of a little blackening.
Transfer the charred vegetables to a blender with the cilantro and a pinch of salt. Pulse until you reach a chunky, vibrant consistency. Set aside.
Preheat your grill or a heavy cast-iron grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the pork tenderloin, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Let the meat rest for 10 minutes after grilling to keep the juices locked in the provenance of the cut.
While the meat rests, lightly toast the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and warm.
Slice the pork thinly against the grain. Assemble the tacos by layering the pork onto the tortillas, topping with a generous spoonful of charred salsa verde and fresh radish slices.
The essence of this dish lies in the contrast between the deep, smoky char of the pork and the bright, acidic punch of the salsa verde. Ensure your grill is screaming hot before the meat hits the grates to achieve that signature BBQ crust. Respect the lineage of the taco by using high-quality corn tortillas.
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Prices shown reflect the estimated cost of the portion used in this recipe, not the full item price. Actual costs may vary by store and location.