Roast Jerk Pork with Cranberries and Fresh Spicy Jalapeno Salsa Verde

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Ingredients

For the Roast Jerk Pork

• 5 pounds pork loin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

For the Fresh Spicy Jalapeño Salsa Verde

• 4 fresh jalapeños, stems removed
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• ½ cup fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Grocery List

1. Pork loin (5 pounds)
2. Olive oil
3. Dried thyme
4. Ground nutmeg
5. Allspice
6. Salt
7. Black pepper
8. Honey
9. Orange (for zest)
10. Cranberry sauce (2 cups)
11. Fresh jalapeños (4)
12. Fresh cilantro (1 cup)
13. Limes (for juice)
14. Garlic

Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Roast Jerk Pork

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the rack in the middle.
2. Season the Pork: Drizzle olive oil over the pork loin and season it evenly with thyme, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the Pork: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of olive oil. Sear the pork on all sides for about 4 to 6 minutes until golden brown.
4. Add Sweetness: Remove from heat, drizzle honey over the pork, and sprinkle with orange zest.
5. Roast in Oven: Cover with aluminum foil and roast for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and roast for an additional 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F to 160°F (63°C to 71°C).
6. Rest the Meat: Transfer the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.

Preparing the Fresh Spicy Jalapeño Salsa Verde

1. Blend Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and olive oil.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Blend until smooth and adjust salt to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the roast pork and serve it topped with cranberry sauce alongside a generous spoonful of spicy jalapeño salsa verde.

Cooking Time

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (including prep and resting time).

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Assuming this recipe serves 5:

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving.
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g

Tips & Notes

• For best flavor absorption, consider marinating the pork in jerk seasoning overnight before cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork is cooked perfectly.
• Adjust jalapeños based on your spice preference; remove seeds for less heat.

This Roast Jerk Pork with Cranberries and Fresh Spicy Jalapeño Salsa Verde is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together vibrant flavors and textures sure to please any palate! Enjoy your culinary adventure!