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Irresistible sweet jalapeño pork served in a skillet with tender pork pieces glazed in a sweet and spicy jalapeño sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Irresistible Sweet Jalapeño Pork Recipe – Spicy Dinner Idea

This irresistible sweet jalapeño pork recipe combines tender pork with a sweet and spicy jalapeño glaze. A bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or anyone who loves a kick of heat with their comfort food.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern-Inspired, Tex Mex
Servings 8
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or roasting pan
  • Saucepan (for glaze)
  • Grill or slow cooker (optional)
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Tongs or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 3–4 lb pork shoulder (or tenderloin/ribs depending on method)
  • 2–3 fresh jalapeños, chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • ½ cup honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
  • ½ cup pineapple juice or orange juice (optional for fruity variation)
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Pork: Season pork shoulder with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Make Glaze: In a saucepan, combine honey/brown sugar, jalapeños, soy sauce, vinegar, and juice (if using). Simmer until thickened.
  • Cook Pork:
    Oven-Roasting: Roast at 325°F (160°C), basting with glaze every 30 minutes until tender (2–3 hours).
    Slow-Cooking: Place pork in slow cooker, pour glaze over, and cook on low for 6–8 hours until pull-apart tender.
    Grilling: Grill over medium heat, brushing with glaze frequently for caramelized edges.
  • Finish: Once cooked, baste with remaining glaze and let rest for 10–15 minutes.
  • Serve: Slice or shred pork, garnish with cilantro and lime wedges, and serve with rice, tortillas, or roasted vegetables.
  • Tip: Resting pork before slicing ensures juicier servings and allows flavors to settle.

Notes

  • Pork shoulder is the best cut for slow cooking and absorbing flavors.
  • Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat; keep them for bold spice.
  • Balance sweetness with acidity (vinegar or citrus) to avoid a flat flavor.
  • Flavors deepen after resting overnight—great for make-ahead meals.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Keyword jalapeño honey pork, spicy-sweet glaze, Sweet jalapeño pork, Tex-Mex pork roast