A Pig That Won’t Default: Pork Recipes and A Costco Giveaway

I’m a born and bred North Carolinian. Pork is staple around these parts and to be quite honest, we get down right volatile over our recipes here…especially BBQ. I’m from the Western part of the state and we like it sweet and tangy. In the Eastern part of the state they like a lot of vinegar and pepper. In Lexington, well that’s a whole other world.

So, I was excited to get contacted to work with Costco to celebrate National Pork Month. So no, we’re not talking about sovereign debt in Europe that might be suddenly worthless. Which means some great things for you.

-Costco has challenged me to create a tasty pork recipe for an Everyday Dinner.

-My challenge meat is Pork Tenderloin.

-Even better? I get $2.00 off pork tenderloin this week–it’s on special at Costco!

I’m also on Weight Watchers. Luckily for me, as a wholesome cut packing tons of flavors, ounce for ounce, pork tenderloin is as lean as a skinless chicken breast. Score! 

My boys are pork tenderloin lovers. It’s our family favorite. I love to cook it in a variety of ways, but their favorite it when I roast it with thyme and garlic. 

What I can’t wait to try out when testing recipes? The new USDA guidelines for cooking port. In May, the USDA reduced the temperature guideline for pork loins, chops and roasts from 160 to 145 degrees F, with a three-minute rest. If you’ve ever overcooked a pork tenderloin, you’ll know my enthusiasm for testing the new guidelines. Imagine swallowing sandpaper. There’s not enough sweet tea in the world to 

While I’ll be checking out Costco’s “In The Warehouse”  and Pork Be Inspired.com for recipe inspiration, I’m working on developing something new that will my family and friends will not only enjoy, but be easy to prepare for an Everyday Dinner.

I’m not sure what my final recipe will be, but check back on Saturday, October 23rd. Not only will it be the complete recipe, but I’ll have pictures walking you through it and I’ll get an honest opinion from any cooks biggest critic…my 11 year old son. 

Finally? I have $25 in Costco cash that I’m giving away. Ooo..that makes you want to come back and see my recipe doesn’t it? I’ll announce the winner as well, so that’s a good reason to pop in and say hello.

Ok. Now, let’s get to the good stuff.

The Giveaway.

Leave me a comment and tell me what your favorite pork recipe is. If you want, leave the full recipe, as my boys are always clamoring for new recipes filled with awesomeness.

The Prize

A Pork Lovers Delight kit that includes:

• $25 in Costco cash
• Digital instand-read thermometer
• USB flash drive full of helpful pork tips and information

Leave our comment by 6pm EST on Saturday, October 22nd and I’ll announce the winner on Sunday with my new creation!  

Disclosure: I was provided Costco cash to purchase ingredients for my recipe and I’m also being provided a stipend by TheMotherhood to share my love of pork with you.