How To Smoke Pork Tenderloin In Charcoal Grill

Smoking Pork Tenderloin on a Charcoal Grill

Welcome to our guide on how to smoke pork tenderloin on a charcoal grill. Smoking pork tenderloin can result in a juicy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can achieve tender, smoky perfection in your own backyard. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to smoke pork tenderloin on a charcoal grill, so you can impress your friends and family with your barbecue skills.

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

Before you start smoking the pork tenderloin, it’s important to properly prepare the meat. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with your favorite dry rub or marinade. This will add flavor and help create a delicious crust on the outside of the meat.
3. Cover the seasoned pork tenderloin and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Setting Up the Charcoal Grill

Now it’s time to set up your charcoal grill for smoking. Follow these steps to prepare your grill:

1. Fill a chimney starter with charcoal and light it. Allow the charcoal to burn until it is covered with a light layer of ash.
2. Once the charcoal is ready, carefully pour it into the grill and arrange it to create two zones: a hot zone and a cool zone.
3. Place a drip pan filled with water in the cool zone of the grill. This will help maintain a moist cooking environment and catch any drippings from the pork tenderloin.

Smoking the Pork Tenderloin

Now that your grill is set up, it’s time to start smoking the pork tenderloin. Follow these steps for a successful smoking process:

1. Place the pork tenderloin on the cool side of the grill, away from the direct heat.
2. Close the lid of the grill and adjust the vents to maintain a temperature of around 225-250°F (107-121°C).
3. Add wood chips or chunks to the hot charcoal to create smoke. Apple, hickory, or cherry wood are popular choices for smoking pork tenderloin.
4. Monitor the temperature of the grill and the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin using a meat thermometer. The pork tenderloin is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Resting and Serving

Once the pork tenderloin has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. After resting, slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with your favorite sides and sauces.

Smoking pork tenderloin on a charcoal grill is a rewarding process that yields delicious results. With a little practice and the right techniques, you can become a master at smoking pork tenderloin and impress your guests with your barbecue skills. So fire up the grill, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to be a hit!

We hope you found this guide helpful and that you’re now ready to smoke pork tenderloin on your charcoal grill. Happy grilling!