Pork-Tendered for Better Digestion

If you’re looking for a comforting, protein-rich meal that supports digestion while delivering bold flavor, this Pork-Tendered for Better Digestion recipe is for you.

At BNP, we’re not here to take foods away — we’re here to make them work better for you. This hearty dish combines lean pork, fiber-rich lentils, vegetables, and digestive bitters to create a satisfying meal that supports both nourishment and enjoyment.

Think of this as a smarter “pit stop” dinner — one that helps fuel your body while incorporating ingredients traditionally used to support digestion.

Why This Pork-Tendered for Better Digestion Is Better for You

This isn’t just a hearty pork stew — it’s a simple way to combine protein, fiber, and flavorful ingredients into a meal that may support digestive wellness and overall nutrition.

The Power of the Protein + Fiber Approach

By combining lean pork, lentils, vegetables, and digestive-supportive ingredients, you’re creating a meal that may help:

  • Support satiety and fullness
  • Increase fiber intake
  • Promote digestive wellness
  • Deliver important vitamins and minerals
  • Create a satisfying and balanced meal

Ingredient Spotlight: What Each Piece Does

Lean Pork

Pork provides high-quality protein along with nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins that support energy production and overall health.

Lentils

Lentils are rich in fiber and plant protein, helping support digestion, satiety, and balanced meals.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes provide antioxidants such as lycopene and contribute flavor, color, and nutrients.

Green Beans

Green beans add fiber, texture, and additional plant nutrients to support overall wellness.

Garlic

Garlic contributes flavor while providing naturally occurring plant compounds that support health.

Bitters

Bitters have traditionally been used to support digestion and are commonly incorporated into meals and beverages throughout many cultures.

Why Fiber Matters for Digestion

Fiber plays an important role in digestive health and overall wellness.

Getting enough fiber may help support:

  • Regular digestion
  • Fullness and satiety
  • A healthy gut environment
  • Balanced eating patterns

Pairing fiber-rich foods with quality protein creates meals that are both satisfying and nourishing.

This is one of the easiest “Better Not Perfect” ways to add more digestion-supportive ingredients to your dinner routine.

Pork-Tendered for Better Digestion

Known to enhance digestion, bitters (such as gentian root) are a known digestif in Europe. In this recipe, bitters impart bitter-sweetness for a surprisingly light, yet lively dish. Try this flavorful recipe for better digestion at your next holiday gathering. If you are interested in learning more about nutrition for better digestion, check out The Digestive Tune Up™ Program.
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Course dinner, entree
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz lean pork from a tenderloin or thick chops
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 2 oz bitters such as Angostura
  • 1/16 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups cooked lentils
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro coarsely chopped
  • 1 1/4 cups green beans trimmed and halved

Instructions
 

  • Freeze the pork for about 20 minutes (not longer); remove from freezer and slice thinly.
  • In a skillet, place the garlic and lightly brown the pork in the oil on medium-low heat. After a few minutes, add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and bitters, stirring frequently.
  • Season with salt and let simmer for about 10 minutes. (Pork needs to be cooked thoroughly.)
  • Add the lentils to the tomato-pork mixture. Simmer until hot, stir in the cilantro, and taste. (Add additional salt or cilantro if necessary.)
  • In a saucepan, boil the green beans. Drain the green beans. Fold green beans into the stew and serve.
Keyword digestion, pork

Better Not Perfect Add-On Ideas

Make it yours depending on what your body needs:

  • Add spinach or kale for additional greens
  • Serve over quinoa or brown rice for extra carbohydrates
  • Add mushrooms for greater plant diversity
  • Increase the lentils for more fiber
  • Top with additional fresh cilantro before serving

How This Recipe Fits Into Your Nutrition Goals

At BNP, we often encourage meals that combine quality protein, fiber-rich foods, and colorful vegetables.

This recipe naturally incorporates all three.

Estimated Nutrition Benefits

Will vary depending on serving size and ingredient choices.

  • High-quality protein
  • Fiber-rich lentils and vegetables
  • Antioxidant-rich tomatoes
  • Diverse plant ingredients

How to Make It More Balanced

  • Increase vegetables for additional fiber
  • Add a whole grain side if desired
  • Include a salad for more plant diversity
  • Adjust portions based on your hunger and nutrition goals

Want to Know What’s Better for YOU?

Here’s the truth — even the “healthiest” recipe isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Your body has its own needs, patterns, and signals—and when you understand those, everything (including meals like this) starts to work better.

At BNP, we help you:

  • Understand how your body is actually functioning
  • Identify what’s working (and what’s not)
  • Build a personalized plan that fits your life

Start your personalized Weight Health plan today!

Because it’s not about eating “perfect,” it’s about finding what works for you.