Conquering Costco Pork Medallions: An Oven Odyssey (For Those Who Can't Grill Like a Boss)
Let's face it, grilling is the Lebron James of cooking methods: everyone admires it, but not everyone can pull it off. Fear not, my fellow burnt-sausage survivors! Tonight, we celebrate the unsung hero: the oven. And together, we will transform those Costco pork medallions from mystery meat to a masterpiece (hopefully, without setting off the smoke alarm).
Step 1: The Great Unboxing
First things first, crack open that Costco package. Be warned, this might require the upper body strength of a champion weightlifter. But hey, think of it as your pre-dinner workout! Inside, you'll find these beautiful pork medallions, pre-cut and ready to become your culinary champion. Important Note: These medallions might be sporting a mysterious peppery coating. That's the Tuscan seasoning, and it's there to add some pizzazz. Trust the seasoning, my friends. It's got your back.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven, Not Your Panic Button
Fire up your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it gets nice and toasty, take a deep breath. You've got this. Pro Tip: If your oven starts throwing shade with uneven heating, don't fret! Just rotate the pan halfway through cooking to ensure even doneness.
Step 3: Pan Prep Party (Because Nobody Likes Burnt Medallions)
Grab a baking sheet and grease it up with some cooking oil. We're not looking for a swimming pool here, but a little oil goes a long way in preventing those medallions from sticking like overzealous karaoke singers. Bonus points for fancy flavored oils like avocado or sesame, but plain olive oil is a perfectly acceptable party guest.
Step 4: The Searing Soiree (Optional But Fancy)
If you're feeling adventurous (and have a good oven mitt), you can give the medallions a quick sear in a hot skillet before sending them to the oven. This adds a nice caramelized crust, but it's not essential for success. Basically, picture yourself as a rockstar chef. Searing is your epic guitar solo, but the oven is your trusty backup band. You can still bring the house down without the solo.
Step 5: Oven Time! Let the Porky Party Commence!
Pop those medallions on the baking sheet and into the preheated oven. Now, for the most important part: patience. Resist the urge to open the oven door every two minutes (We've all been there, it's okay to admit it). Let those porky medallions cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This is where your trusty meat thermometer comes in as your knight in shining armor.
Step 6: The Rest is History (and Delicious Pork)
Once the timer dings and your thermometer sings the song of perfectly cooked pork, take those medallions out and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is a flavor explosion.
Step 7: Dinnertime Victory Lap!
Plate up your masterpiece and celebrate your culinary conquest! You've transformed those Costco medallions from mystery meat to a succulent, oven-roasted dream. Pair it with your favorite sides, grab a fork, and prepare to be amazed by your own skills.
Remember, cooking shouldn't be stressful. It's about having fun and enjoying the delicious outcome. So crank up the tunes, grab a glass of wine (or your beverage of choice), and pat yourself on the back, champion oven chef!
