Sweet Jalapeno Glazed Pork

This sweet and spicy jalapeno glazed pork tenderloin has become my weeknight dinner hero. The perfect balance of heat from the jalapenos and sweetness from the honey creates an irresistible glaze that coats each piece of tender pork. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's my go-to recipe when I want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something quick yet special. My husband declared it the best pork dish I've ever made, and now it's on regular rotation in our home, especially when we're entertaining guests who appreciate a little heat.

• Pork tenderloin fresh and lean meat that cooks quickly and remains tender
• Jalapenos fresh peppers provide the perfect kick look for firm bright green ones
• Honey natural sweetener that creates a gorgeous glaze raw local honey works best
• Soy sauce adds umami depth and saltiness use low sodium if preferred
• Garlic fresh cloves provide essential aromatic flavor crush for maximum impact
• Apple cider vinegar balances sweetness with tang and helps tenderize the meat
• Lime juice fresh citrus brightens the entire dish and cuts through richness
• Olive oil high quality oil for proper searing
• Cilantro fresh herbs add color and freshness choose bunches with vibrant green leaves

How To Make Sweet Jalapeno Pork

Prepare and season the pork

Cut pork tenderloin into 1-inch cubes of similar size for even cooking. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.

Sear the pork

Heat olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering but not smoking. Add pork pieces in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Allow to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on the first side then flip each piece and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. Remove pork to a plate and tent loosely with foil.

Create the flavor base

In the same skillet with the pork drippings add minced garlic and diced jalapenos. Sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened but not browned. The residual heat from the pan will release their essential oils.

Make the glaze

Pour in honey soy sauce apple cider vinegar and fresh lime juice stirring constantly to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken and becomes glossy. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.

Finish the dish

Return the seared pork to the skillet including any accumulated juices. Gently toss the meat to coat evenly in the glaze. Let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes allowing the pork to absorb the flavors and the sauce to further thicken. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish just before serving.

The jalapenos are truly the star of this dish. I grow them in my garden each summer and freeze extras specifically for this recipe. My husband who typically avoids spicy food makes an exception for this dish saying the honey perfectly balances the heat making it addictively good rather than overwhelmingly spicy.

Spice Level Control

This recipe offers wonderful flexibility with its heat level. For a milder version remove all jalapeno seeds and membranes which contain most of the capsaicin that gives peppers their heat. For medium heat leave a few seeds in or use half seeded and half with seeds intact. For true spice lovers keep all seeds and even consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes. Remember that cooking jalapenos does reduce their heat somewhat so the final dish will be slightly milder than the raw pepper.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet jalapeno pork is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Spoon it over steamed jasmine rice which will absorb the delicious sauce or try it with coconut rice for a tropical twist. For a lower carb option serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower. The pork also makes excellent lettuce wraps when placed in butter lettuce cups with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime. For entertaining I like to serve it as an appetizer with toothpicks and watch it disappear within minutes.

Storage and Reheating

The flavor of this dish actually develops beautifully overnight making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating add a tablespoon of water to the pan to loosen the sauce which will have thickened in the refrigerator. Warm gently over medium-low heat until just heated through about 2-3 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating which can toughen the pork. This dish does not freeze well as the texture of the glaze changes upon thawing.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

To make it milder, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos or reduce the quantity. For extra heat, keep some seeds or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

→ What can I serve with Sweet Jalapeno Pork?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or noodles. For a lighter meal, serve with a crunchy Asian slaw or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I substitute the pork with another protein?

Yes! This glaze works beautifully with chicken breast chunks, firm tofu, or even shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ How do I know when the pork is properly cooked?

Pork tenderloin should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have a slight blush of pink in the center. For 1-inch pieces, this typically takes 6-8 minutes over medium-high heat.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The pork can be cut and the sauce ingredients measured in advance, but for best results, cook just before serving. If needed, store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheat.

→ What's the best way to cut pork tenderloin?

For even cooking, slice the tenderloin into medallions against the grain, then cut those into 1-inch cubes. Make sure to trim any silver skin before cutting.