Black Cherry BBQ Pork Tenderloin recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsThirsty LionBlack Cherry BBQ Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Black Cherry BBQ Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Inspired by Thirsty Lion
Time2h
Serves4

Brine, wood smoked, grilled with black cherry glaze, white cheddar mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Brine

Seasonal Vegetables

Method

Brining the Pork

1

Prepare the Brine

In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme. Stir until salt and sugar are dissolved.

2

Brine the Pork

Place the pork tenderloin in the brine, ensuring it is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

3

Make the Black Cherry Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine black cherry preserves, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ground cinnamon, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.

4

Smoke the Pork

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Remove the pork from the brine, rinse with cold water, and pat dry. Place the pork in the smoker and smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

5

Grill the Pork

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the smoked pork tenderloin with the black cherry glaze, then grill for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with more glaze, until caramelized and heated through.

Preparing the Mashed Potatoes

6

Cook the Potatoes

In a large pot, cover the quartered russet potatoes with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

7

Mash the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, shredded white cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Preparing the Seasonal Vegetables

8

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.

9

Roast the Vegetables

Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Serving

10

Plate the Dish

Slice the grilled pork tenderloin and serve it alongside the white cheddar mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. Drizzle any remaining black cherry glaze over the pork for extra flavor.

More from Thirsty Lion