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The following recipe was shared at my Caribbean dinner event. You can read about it and get additional Caribbean recipes from the event HERE.

Key Lime Marinated Pork Filets
shared at the event by Joelen
recipe HERE

4-6 tablespoons Nellie & Joe’s Key West Lime Juice
1/3 cup olive or vegetable oil
1 garlic clove
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons sugar
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste

Toss all ingredients into a food processor and pulse until combined. Marinate meat for ½ hour, grill and eat.

Use above marinate on pork medallions and wrap with bacon.
Grill until done; serve hot.

Table of Contents

Why Eat Key Lime Marinated Pork Filets?

There are many stellar cuts of pork available for dinner inspiration, and the key lime marinated pork filet is definitely at the top of the list. The bright, tart flavor of the citrusy key lime in combination with the complexity of savory pork is truly a delectable delight! This zesty combination makes the perfect centerpiece for a mid-week meal, especially given the ease and quickness of cooking a pork filet. Whether on the grill or oven-roasted, the key lime marinated pork filet always pulls off an amazing show.

What Is a Pork Filet?

A pork filet is sometimes known as a pork tenderloin, and is the most tender cut of the pig. It’s quite lean and taking up the least amount of space in the loin portion, yet still delivers loads of succulent flavor.
Pork filets are very versatile and require minimal prepping and cooking time. A pork filet can be a larger single piece, cut into individual medallions or sliced into strips. After trimming the silverskin, the meat should be free of fat, gristle, and any other impurities. It’s then ready to be flavoured with your favorite marinade.

Key Lime and Pork Complement Each Other Perfectly

The bright and citrusy flavor of key lime complements pork wonderfully well. The zesty richness of key lime adds a full depth of flavor to the mild tasting pork, without overpowering it. The key lime provides a brightness and freshness, enhancing rather than masking the natural flavor of the pork.
Unlike some strong-tasting citrus juices, key lime’s mild tartness will marinade and penetrate the protein without turning it into a soggy mess. The vibrant flavor and essence of the key lime will ‘give life’ to the otherwise bland pork entrée – resulting in an unforgettable dinner treat.

Cook Up Some Delicious Pork Filets

When marinating the pork filet, give it at least one hour for the full flavor to be absorbed. Since a pork filet is lean and delicate, it’s best marinaded for a shorter length of time, so it doesn’t get mushy, and as with any marinade, do not re-use the same marinade to prevent cross-contamination from any potential bacteria.
When cooking marinated pork filets, the goal is to produce tender, juicy morsels. Not an easy feat, considering the leanness of the cut. The key is not to overcook the filet, and to achieve this the pork filet can be pan-seared, sautéed, grilled, roasted, slow-cooked, or even stir-fried.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long should I marinate a pork filet?
A: It’s recommended to marinate a pork filet for at least one hour in order for the full flavor to be absorbed.

Q: What is the best cooking method for marinated pork filets?
A: The best cooking method for any pork filet is to cook it at medium-high heat. Flipping the meat every couple of minutes ensures even cooking.

Q: What temperature should I cook the pork filets to?
A: Pork filets should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.