Ingredients:

  • 5 lbs Pork Tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 Tbsp Olive Oil, high heat, divided
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt, plus extra to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper, freshly ground, plus extra to taste
  • 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter, cold and cut into pieces
  • 4 cloves Garlic, freshly minced
  • 1 tsp Fresh Thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried)
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
  • 12 oz Fresh Green Beans, trimmed
  • 2 Tbsp Water
  • 1/2 tsp Lemon Zest

Instructions:

  1. Pat the diced pork completely dry using paper towels. Season heavily with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Trim the green beans. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley separately. Have the butter, lemon juice, and thyme ready for the sauce.
  3. Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a separate large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed green beans. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to brighten.
  4. Add 2 Tbsp of water to the pan. Immediately cover and allow the beans to steam for 2-3 minutes until they are al dente. Remove the lid, season, and finish with the lemon zest. Transfer the beans to a serving dish and keep warm.
  5. Place the main skillet over high heat for 2 minutes. Add the remaining 2 Tbsp of high-heat olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the seasoned pork bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
  6. Sear the pork for 3-4 minutes without moving until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. Flip the pieces and sear on the second side for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside on a clean plate when the internal temperature reaches 140°F–145°F (60°C–63°C).
  7. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the 4 Tbsp of unsalted butter and the minced garlic to the same pan. Cook for about 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and softened but not burnt.
  8. Stir in the fresh thyme and 1 Tbsp of fresh lemon juice to build the butter sauce.
  9. Return the seared pork bites to the pan. Toss them gently in the garlic butter sauce until every piece is beautifully coated. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley.
  10. Serve the glossy Garlic Butter Pork Bites immediately alongside the Lemon Green Beans.