These Easy Crispy Pork Tenderloin Tacos are packed with flavor! Crispy tenderloin meets fresh corn salsa for a delicious bite. Perfect for taco night or any time you want a tasty meal!
Who knew tacos could be this easy? I love how the crunchiness of the pork pairs perfectly with the sweet corn. It’s a simple way to impress your friends (or just treat yourself!).
Making these tacos takes hardly any time! I just fry the pork, toss together the salsa, and voila! A quick and yummy dinner is ready in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is juicy and tender when cooked right. If you want a leaner option, you can use chicken breast instead. Just adjust the cooking time, as chicken cooks quicker than pork.
Vegetable Oil: It’s great for frying, but if you’re looking for a healthier fat, try using olive oil or avocado oil. They both work well and add nice flavors too!
Fresh Corn: Fresh corn brings sweetness! If it’s not in season, frozen corn works as a perfect substitute and you don’t even have to thaw it before using. Just toss it in straight from the bag!
Spices: The spices give great flavor! If you have taco seasoning or fajita seasoning, feel free to use that instead. It can save you a little prep time with a nice flavor punch!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Pork for Crispy Edges?
Getting those crispy edges on your pork is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s ready.
- Cook the pork in batches. Overcrowding the pan traps steam and prevents crispiness.
- Don’t flip the pork too early! Let it cook for 2-3 minutes on each side before turning.
- Once cooked, let the pork rest on a plate. This keeps juices in and ensures every bite is tasty.
Following these tips will help you nail that perfect crispy texture and juicy flavor for your tacos!
Easy Crispy Pork Tenderloin Tacos With Fresh Corn Salsa
Ingredients:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Fresh Corn Salsa:
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream or crema, crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese, extra cilantro wedges, lime wedges
Estimated Time Needed:
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fresh Corn Salsa:
Start by gathering a medium bowl. Add in the fresh corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if you like it spicy), and chopped cilantro. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture, and sprinkle with salt to taste. Give it a good toss to combine everything well. Set the salsa aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the pork.
2. Season the Pork Tenderloin:
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced pork tenderloin strips with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is coated evenly for full flavor.
3. Cook the Pork:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Working in batches if necessary (don’t overcrowd the pan), add the seasoned pork strips in a single layer. Allow them to sear, giving them about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked through, transfer the pork to a plate and keep it warm while you repeat the process with any remaining pork strips.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the pork is cooking, you can warm the tortillas. You can either place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side, or wrap them in foil and place them in a low oven until they are pliable and warm.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
To assemble your tacos, take a warmed tortilla and place a generous amount of crispy pork strips in the center. Top it off with your delicious fresh corn salsa. Add any optional toppings you like, such as sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or crumbled cheese. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these tasty tacos immediately, and enjoy every bite of those crispy pork tenderloins topped with vibrant, fresh salsa!
This recipe brings juicy, crispy pork together with the refreshing sweetness of corn salsa—a delightful feast in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use chicken breast or thighs, or even beef strips for an alternative flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than pork.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover pork and salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat the pork, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Enjoy the salsa cold!
Can I Make the Fresh Corn Salsa in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the corn salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The flavors will meld nicely, enhancing the taste!
What Are Some Good Toppings for the Tacos?
Besides the fresh corn salsa, you might consider toppings like sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese, sour cream or crema, and extra cilantro. Lime wedges are perfect for an added burst of citrus!
