Irresistibly Easy Instant Pot Asian Pork Tenderloin: Your New Favorite 21 Day Fix, Gluten-Free & Paleo Dinner!
This 21 Day Fix Instant Pot Asian Pork Tenderloin is an absolute game-changer in our kitchen – a truly fast, incredibly easy, and undeniably delicious dinner that ticks all the boxes: FIX approved, gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo friendly. If you’re searching for a healthy, quick, and flavorful meal that everyone will love, look no further!
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Confession #142 – I have a massive backlog of recipes waiting to be shared, and honestly, this post was not in my immediate plans. But then, this happened.
Oh my goodness, you guys. It’s so incredibly good that I simply couldn’t wait another moment to share it with you. Sometimes, a recipe is just too fantastic to keep under wraps, even if it means deviating from the carefully planned content calendar!
I didn’t even conduct a full photoshoot for this one because it was the very first time I was recipe testing this particular flavor combination. Lately, my process has been to test new recipes first, perfect them, and then schedule a dedicated session to photograph the recipe in process, complete with all the beautiful final shots.
The Charm of Spontaneous Recipe Sharing
Can I tell you something truly nostalgic? I kind of miss the early days of blogging – whipping up something yummy for dinner, grabbing a quick snapshot with my phone, and then sharing it with you almost in real-time. There was an unfiltered joy and immediacy to it that I sometimes long for.
Those old photos, though, definitely haunt me now! My photography skills have (thankfully) evolved since then.
I know I say this often, but I am so thankful for all of you who have been incredibly forgiving of my photography – both my humble beginnings and my ongoing attempts – because, let’s be honest, even my newer work isn’t always as magazine-perfect as I aspire for it to be. One day, when my kiddos are both happily settled in school full-time, I am going to absolutely nail food photography. Until then, I’ll continue to do my very best with the time and resources I have.
And when a meal is as utterly delicious as this Asian Pork Tenderloin, and I know my recipe output is moving slower than I’d like, I’m just going to hit publish and share it. Are you cool with that? I hope so, because this recipe is too good to keep waiting!
A Reader Favorite That Became Ours Too
This recipe has actually been on my “must-try” list for quite a while (again – that backlog!). But one of my amazing readers, Robin C., beat me to it. She messaged me and practically demanded that I make it ASAP, insisting on how fantastic it was.
Robin C., you were absolutely spot on with this one! It is so damn delicious, and I still can’t believe how incredibly easy it is to cook a pork tenderloin this fantastically perfect in the Instant Pot. The result is always tender, juicy, and infused with incredible Asian-inspired flavors, making it a healthy and satisfying meal without the fuss.
Why the Instant Pot is Perfect for Pork Tenderloin
Using the Instant Pot for pork tenderloin is a revelation. This lean cut of meat can often dry out if not cooked precisely, but the pressure cooker creates a steamy, controlled environment that guarantees a moist, tender, and flavorful result every single time. It dramatically cuts down on cooking time compared to traditional oven or stovetop methods, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, you can build incredible depth of flavor right in the pot, from searing to saucing, all in one go.
The Secret to Amazing Pork Tenderloin in the Instant Pot
Guys, seriously, this is exactly what you need to do to make pork tenderloin so fork-tender and oh-so-delicious that it practically melts in your mouth. Don’t skip these steps; they are key to achieving perfect results with your Instant Pot. Follow these 4 simple, yet crucial, steps for an unforgettable meal:
- Sear Your Pork First Using the Sauté Function: This step is non-negotiable! Searing creates a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside of the pork tenderloin, locking in juices and adding a layer of rich, caramelized flavor that you just can’t get otherwise. It takes just a few minutes per side but makes a world of difference.
- Lock Lid and Set Your Instant Pot for 6 Minutes on High Pressure: For an average 1.5 lb pork tenderloin, 6 minutes at high pressure is the sweet spot. This short cooking time ensures the pork is cooked through but remains incredibly tender, avoiding the rubbery texture that can sometimes occur with overcooking.
- When Cook Time is Up, Do a 5-Minute Natural Release Before Finishing with a Quick Release: A partial natural release (NPR) is vital. It allows the internal temperature of the pork to stabilize gently, resulting in a more evenly cooked and juicier tenderloin. After 5 minutes, a quick release finishes the process efficiently.
- Let the Pork Rest for 3-5 Minutes Before Slicing: Just like any cooked meat, resting is critical. This allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the tenderloin, ensuring every slice is as moist and flavorful as possible. Slicing too early will cause those precious juices to run out, leading to a drier result.
What Should I Serve with This Asian Pork Tenderloin?
The versatility of this Asian Pork Tenderloin is fantastic! I personally love to serve this over some of my favorite Brown Rice Ramen Noodles and a side of crisp green beans. The nutty flavor of the brown rice noodles perfectly complements the savory-sweet sauce, while the green beans add a fresh, vibrant crunch.
However, the options for sides and veggie pairings are truly endless, allowing you to easily customize your meal to your preferences or dietary needs:
- Rice Alternatives: Opt for cauliflower rice for a low-carb, paleo-friendly option, or serve with jasmine rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Other Noodles: Any whole wheat or gluten-free noodle variety would be delicious, such as rice vermicelli or even zoodles (zucchini noodles).
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots are all excellent choices. If you want to steam your veggies directly in the Instant Pot, you can do so in a steam basket above the pork while it rests, or even in the sauce itself. Just set the Instant Pot to zero or one minute on high pressure (depending on the type of veggies and your desired crispness) once the pork is removed, and you’re good to go!
- Fresh Garnishes: A sprinkle of sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can elevate the flavors even further.
I am also incredibly excited to be experimenting with a pulled version of these amazing flavors for an Asian-inspired pork taco in the near future, so be sure you come back soon! (Aaaaaand… my recipe list just got longer again, lol!).
Enjoy this fantastic, healthy, and incredibly easy Instant Pot Asian Pork Tenderloin. It’s truly a recipe that tastes gourmet but comes together in a flash!
Watch the Recipe Video!
Oh – and check out this video to see just how quick and easy this recipe truly is to make. It walks you through each step, making sure you get perfect results every time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use another cut of pork for this recipe?
A: While pork tenderloin is recommended for its quick cooking time and tender texture, you could adapt this recipe for other cuts like pork loin or even pork shoulder. However, cooking times would need to be adjusted significantly. Pork loin would take longer (around 10-12 minutes on high pressure), and pork shoulder (for pulled pork) would require much longer (45-60 minutes). Always check internal temperature for doneness (145°F for tenderloin).
Q: What are coconut aminos and can I substitute them?
A: Coconut aminos are a savory, salty seasoning sauce made from the sap of coconut palms. They are a popular gluten-free, soy-free, and paleo-friendly alternative to soy sauce or tamari. If you don’t have dietary restrictions, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) in equal amounts, though the flavor profile might be slightly different.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
A: To thicken the sauce, as mentioned in the recipe, you’ll create a slurry with rice flour (or arrowroot/tapioca for paleo) and some of the sauce, then stir it back in. If you want it even thicker, you can add a little more slurry. If the sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a tablespoon or two of water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the Asian sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cooked pork tenderloin can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Looking for More Asian Inspired Recipes? Check These Out:
If you’re loving these Asian flavors and the convenience of the Instant Pot, be sure to explore some of my other popular recipes:
- 21 Day Fix Instant Pot Asian Chicken – Another incredibly flavorful and easy Instant Pot meal perfect for meal prep.
- Instant Pot Asian Steak Lettuce Wraps | 21 Day Fix Asian Steak Lettuce Wraps – A light, fresh, and satisfying meal bursting with savory Asian flavors.
- Instant Pot Ramen Noodles (Stovetop Option) | 21 Day Fix Ramen Noodles (Gluten-free/Dairy-free) – Learn how to make healthy, homemade ramen that fits your dietary goals.
- Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps | PF Changs Copy Cat Lettuce Wraps | 21 Day Fix | Weight Watchers | 2B Mindset – A fan-favorite copycat recipe that’s healthier than the original!
Instant Pot Asian Pork Tenderloin
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
- Dash crushed red pepper
- 2 teaspoons rice flour sub arrowroot or tapioca for paleo, sub whole wheat if no other dietary restrictions
Instructions
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Mix together honey, coconut aminos, tomato paste and 1 tsp of coconut oil and whisk well. *If using an 8 quart instant pot, add 1/3 cup of water to this mixture.
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Set Instant Pot to saute. When it’s displays the word hot, add 1 tsp of coconut oil to the bottom of the pan. Saute pork tenderloin on all sides until it gets to a nice golden brown, then sprinkle thoroughly with salt.
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Add an additional tsp of coconut oil to the pan along with garlic and ginger and cook for a minute or until fragrant. Turn Instant Pot off and stir in sauce.
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Place and lock lid on the IP, and set to manual/high pressure for 5 minutes.
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When cook time is up, natural pressure release for 6 minutes, then switch to quick release.
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Remove pork from Instant Pot and let it rest for at least 3-5 minutes while you thicken the sauce. Switch pot to saute and remove 1/2 cup of the sauce from the pot and add flour to thicken. Pour the slurry back into the Instant Pot. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, usually 1-2 minutes. Add crushed red pepper, if desired.
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Slice pork and serve over brown rice ramen, brown rice, noodles, or noodles. Add veggies and top with sauce.
Video
Notes
WW: 8 points (per serving) plus sides [Calculated using brown rice flour]
Nutrition