Sweet Jalapeño Pork -

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Introduction

Sweet Jalapeno Pork is a delightful dish that marries the heat of jalapenos with the rich flavors of pork, all enveloped in a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe showcases how contrasting flavors can come together to create a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of sweetness and spice makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Pork shoulder: 2 pounds
– Jalapenos: 2 medium, diced
– Brown sugar: 1 cup
– Honey: 1/4 cup
– Soy sauce: 1/4 cup
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Onion: 1 medium, diced
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste

Prep Time

Preparation time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables and preparing the marinade for the pork.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 4 to 6 hours, depending on the cooking method used (slow cooker or oven). The total time, including prep and cooking, comes to about 4 hours and 15 minutes to 6 hours and 15 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 servings, making it ideal for sharing.

Enjoy this Sweet Jalapeno Pork with your favorite sides, and revel in the delicious blend of flavors!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pork

Trim any excess fat from the pork loin. Cut the loin into 1-inch thick medallions for even cooking.

Season the Pork

In a bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the pork medallions to ensure they are well seasoned.

Cook the Pork

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork medallions for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Jalapeño Sauce

In a separate small saucepan, add honey, apple cider vinegar, and diced jalapeños. Simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Combine Pork and Sauce

Once the pork is fully cooked, pour the jalapeño sauce over the medallions in the skillet. Allow the pork to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serve

Transfer the pork medallions to a serving platter. Drizzle more of the jalapeño sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Adjusting Heat Level

For a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños before cooking. For more heat, leave the seeds intact or add extra jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. Consider adding a side of beans for a complete meal.

Storage Recommendations

Leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinate the pork to infuse it with flavor and tenderize the meat. A combination of jalapeños, garlic, and spices can create a delicious base.

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking allows the pork to become tender and juicy. Use low heat for several hours to achieve fall-apart texture.

Caramelizing

Caramelize the jalapeños and onions for a sweet and savory flavor profile. This technique enhances the depth of flavor in the dish.

Glazing

During the last stage of cooking, add a glaze made from the marinade to coat the meat. This adds a sticky and flavorful finish.

Resting

After cooking, let the pork rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken or beef, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can vary based on the amount and type of jalapeños used. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pork ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve for convenience.

What can I serve with sweet jalapeño pork?

This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness and spice.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

The Sweet Jalapeno Pork is a delightful dish that beautifully combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the heat of jalapenos to create a flavorful experience. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, showcasing how well sweet and spicy elements can work together. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it a part of your go-to meal rotation!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

Try using a similar sweet and spicy combination with chicken. The honey will caramelize beautifully, and the spices can be adjusted to suit your taste.