Did a pork tenderloin cook this weekend comparing binders + rubs, nothing else.
Three tenderloins, cooked side by side.
Same smoker, same temp, same pull.
The only changes were:
• one coated with olive oil
• one with Dijon mustard
• one brushed with a bold, smoky sauce
Each one got a different rub, just to see how the binder affected how the seasoning set and carried flavor.
Not ranking them or calling a winner — just showing how small prep choices change the end result without touching the actual cook.
Curious what everyone here uses as a binder for pork tenderloin — oil, mustard, sauce, or none at all?
by Intelligent-Let-2527
13 Comments
They all look fantastic…nice cook! What binder is on the one on the far right in the “after” pic?
I usually don’t use a binder or go with a light application of yellow mustard. Will definitely try some olive oil next time.
Oh come on now – you gotta let us know what rubs you used and what you liked the most.
I mean they all look great but how can I try it out myself if you don’t share more details?
These look beautiful. I do olive oil, garlic, rosemary and lemon zest.
I’ve heard a lot of people using mustard, it always seems like too much to me, I’ve always used evoo and like an herb and garlic spice blend, kikkoman teriyaki is hard to beat though
Nice smoke ring on your left loin!
No binder. Just put the rub on. Never been an issue.
I never use a binder and have no trouble getting the rub to stick to the meat.
I’ve got no objection to rubbing a little olive oil on before the rub, but dijon mustard always confused me. It’s such a powerful flavor that can really clash with the flavors in the rub. There’s a time and a place for mustard, it’s hardly a neutral flavor.
Why so cooked? Think pink!
I’ve pretty much gone to avocado oil as my binder. Tried yellow mustard once on ribs and I got a metallic aftertaste. Use evo when I forget about the avocado oil. Or I go no binder when I forget about them. Haven’t tried mayonnaise yet.
Raspberry Jam (Tabasco) Chipotle.
Woah, lots of variables. This guys definitely isn’t a scientist. These look great though!
And the winner is?!
Thanks for sharing. I imagine there were some happy people at the dinner table that day.