Coffee-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin

DifficultyBeginner

This dish transforms pork tenderloin into a juicy, robustly seasoned centerpiece. The dry rub combines ground coffee, brown sugar, and smoky spices to form a flavorful crust during roasting. Each slice bursts with earthy richness and subtle heat—perfect for pairing with roasted veggies or a bright slaw for contrast.

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Yields4 Servings
Prep Time15 minsCook Time30 minsTotal Time45 mins
For the Coffee Rub
 1 tbsp finely ground coffee (dark roast recommended)
 1 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
 1 tsp smoked paprika
 ½ tsp ground cumin
 ½ tsp ground coriander
 ½ tsp garlic powder
 ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
 1 tsp kosher salt
 ½ tsp black pepper
For the Por
 1 pork tenderloin (about 1–1.25 lb / ~500 g)
 1 tbsp olive oil
Suggested Sides
 Roasted sweet potatoes with lime crema
 Charred broccolini or grilled zucchini
 A black bean and corn salad with cilantro-lime vinaigrette
 For starch: buttery polenta or wild rice pilaf
Preheat the Oven
1
  1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

Mix the Rub
2
  • In a small bowl, combine all rub ingredients. Stir until well-blended and fragrant.

Prep the Pork
3
  1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.

  2. Drizzle with olive oil, then massage the coffee rub all over the pork, coating it thoroughly.

Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended)
4
  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for 1–2 minutes per side to develop a crust.

  2. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

Roast
5
  1. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

  2. For an extra-crisp exterior, switch to broil for the final 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Rest and Slice
6
  1. Remove from the oven and let rest 5–10 minutes to lock in juices.

  2. Slice into medallions and serve warm with your sides of choice.

Chef’s Tips
7
  • For extra depth, you can mix a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of cinnamon into the rub.

  • This rub also works well on beef flank steak or chicken thighs if you’re ever feeling creative.

Drink Pairing
8

Try it with a Malbec, Zinfandel, or cold brew-based cocktail to mirror and complement the coffee notes.

Ingredients

For the Coffee Rub
 1 tbsp finely ground coffee (dark roast recommended)
 1 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
 1 tsp smoked paprika
 ½ tsp ground cumin
 ½ tsp ground coriander
 ½ tsp garlic powder
 ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
 1 tsp kosher salt
 ½ tsp black pepper
For the Por
 1 pork tenderloin (about 1–1.25 lb / ~500 g)
 1 tbsp olive oil
Suggested Sides
 Roasted sweet potatoes with lime crema
 Charred broccolini or grilled zucchini
 A black bean and corn salad with cilantro-lime vinaigrette
 For starch: buttery polenta or wild rice pilaf
Coffee-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin
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