Traditional Indiana Breaded Tenderloin Sandwich

Name: Traditional Indiana Breaded Tenderloin Sandwich
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 pieces pork tenderloin (about 150g each, pounded to 1/4 inch thick); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 500 ml vegetable oil (for frying); 4 buns hamburger buns (toasted); 4 slices lettuce; 4 slices tomato

30 min 4 sandwiches Medium

All Recipes

Crispy and juicy, this sandwich features a perfectly breaded pork tenderloin, a staple of Indiana cuisine.

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The Traditional Indiana Breaded Tenderloin Sandwich is a beloved staple in the Hoosier State. Known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this sandwich is a testament to simple yet delicious comfort food. The star of the dish is the pork tenderloin, pounded thin and coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, then fried to golden perfection. This recipe captures the essence of what makes the Indiana Tenderloin Sandwich so special. The crunch of the breading, the tenderness of the pork, and the fresh toppings all work in harmony to deliver a satisfying bite. If you're a fan of classic American sandwiches, this one is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the pork

Pound each piece of pork tenderloin to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet.

Pro tip: Even thickness ensures even cooking.

Season the flour

In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Bread the tenderloin

Dredge each piece of pork in the seasoned flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Pro tip: Press breadcrumbs firmly for better adherence.

Heat the oil

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F).

Pro tip: Test with a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately.

Fry the tenderloins

Fry the breaded tenderloins for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pan.

Assemble the sandwich

Place each fried tenderloin on a toasted bun. Top with lettuce and tomato slices.

Pro tip: Serve immediately for best texture.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure the oil is hot enough by testing with a breadcrumb.
Pound the pork evenly for uniform cooking.
Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a traditional Indiana breaded tenderloin sandwich?

It's a sandwich featuring a breaded and fried pork tenderloin, typically served with lettuce and tomato on a bun.

How many calories are in a breaded tenderloin sandwich?

A traditional breaded tenderloin sandwich contains approximately 650 calories.

Can I use chicken instead of pork for the tenderloin sandwich?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for pork, but it will alter the traditional taste and texture.

How do I know when the tenderloin is cooked?

The tenderloin is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) and the breading is golden brown.

What sides go well with a breaded tenderloin sandwich?

Fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad are great side options for this sandwich.

Can I make the tenderloins ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the tenderloins and refrigerate them for up to a day before frying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this sandwich hot with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea for the perfect dining experience. To make ahead, you can prepare the breaded tenderloins and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying. Once fried, they can be kept in a warm oven for up to an hour. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating them in the oven to retain crispness.

Nutrition per serving

650

Calories

36g

Protein

30g

Fat

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