Ultimate Iowa Style Pork Tenderloin Sandwich Recipe

Iowa's Most Iconic Sandwich — Made Even Better

If you've ever driven through Iowa, you know the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is practically a state institution. Crispy, golden, and hanging way off the bun — it's a Midwest classic. And when you season it with Kalmes Famous Seasoning & Tenderizer, you take it to a whole new level.

Since the 1850s, when Peter Kalmes opened his bar in St. Donatus, Iowa, our family has been perfecting bold, simple flavors. Five generations later, this recipe carries on that tradition.

Iowa Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless pork loin chops (about 6 oz each)
• 1–2 tbsp Kalmes Famous Seasoning & Tenderizer
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1–2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• Hamburger buns (the bigger the better)
• Toppings: mustard, pickles, onion, lettuce, tomato

Instructions:

1. Pound the pork: Place each chop between plastic wrap and pound to about ¼-inch thickness. The cutlet should be much wider than your bun — that's the Iowa way.
2. Season: Sprinkle Kalmes Seasoning & Tenderizer generously on both sides. Let rest 15–20 minutes.
3. Bread it: Dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Press crumbs firmly to adhere.
4. Fry: Heat 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F. Fry each cutlet 3–4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 145°F).
5. Drain & serve: Rest on a wire rack for 2 minutes. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings.

Tips for the Perfect Iowa Tenderloin

• Pound it thin — the bigger the overhang past the bun, the more authentic.
• Kalmes does double duty — the tenderizer breaks down the pork fibers while the seasoning adds deep, savory flavor.
• Cracker crumbs vs. breadcrumbs — crushed saltines give an extra-crispy, traditional Iowa crust.
• Don't crowd the pan — fry one at a time for the crispiest result.

This is Iowa comfort food at its finest. Get your Kalmes Seasoning & Tenderizer here and make it a weekly tradition.