Perfect Pan-Seared Pork Tenderloin Steaks

Ingredients

• 2 lb pork tenderloins (trimmed; two 1-pound tenderloins)
• 2 tsp kosher salt (plus extra to taste; use 1/2 tsp per steak)
• 0.5 tsp black pepper (use 1/8 tsp per steak)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Steps

1. 1

   Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit (135 degrees Celsius).

2. 2

   Set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and lightly spray the rack with vegetable oil spray.

3. 3

   Pound each pork tenderloin to a uniform 1-inch thickness. Halve each tenderloin crosswise to create four steaks total.

4. 4

   Sprinkle each steak evenly with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.

5. 5

   Place the steaks on the prepared wire rack and cook in the oven until the meat registers between 137 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (58 to 60 degrees Celsius), approximately 25 to 35 minutes.

6. 6

   Move the steaks to one side of the rack. Line the cleared side of the rack with a double layer of paper towels.

7. 7

   Transfer the steaks onto the paper towels, cover them with another double layer of paper towels, and let them stand for 10 minutes.

8. 8

   Pat the steaks thoroughly until the surfaces are very dry.

9. 9

   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is just smoking.

10. 10

    Increase the heat to high, place the steaks in the skillet, and sear until well browned on both sides, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.

11. 11

    Transfer the seared steaks to a carving board and let them stand for 5 minutes.

12. 12

    Slice the steaks against the grain into 3/4-inch thick pieces and transfer to a serving platter. Season with additional salt to taste and serve.

Notes

Choose tenderloins that are equal in size to ensure even cooking. Natural pork is preferred; if using enhanced pork (injected with salt solution), reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon per steak. Avoid opening the oven frequently during the initial cook; if the meat isn't at temperature, wait at least 5 minutes before checking again. Suggested pairing: Scallion-Ginger Relish.

Nutrition per serving

• main course
• pork
• pan-seared
• oven-to-pan
• gluten-free
• dairy-free
• dinner