Glazed Pork

Cook: 135 min

Tender smoked pork shoulder glazed with sweet apricot preserves and complemented by aromatic spices, ideal for hearty family dinners or special gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. boneless smoked pork shoulder
  • 4 black peppercorns
  • 2 cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/3 c. apricot preserves
  • 4 large carrots, sliced and cut diagonally 1/8-inch thick
  • 1/2 tsp. sugar
  • 6 Tbsp. sugar

Instructions

  1. Place pork in a large pot or Dutch oven; cover with water. Add black peppercorns, cloves, and bay leaf.
  2. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 2 1/4 hours or until pork is tender.
  3. Remove from heat; let meat cool in water for about 2 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight with the spices before cooking. If apricot preserves aren't available, peach or orange marmalade can serve as great substitutes. Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or adding a splash of vinegar for balance. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the glazed pork alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Zvadly Salat (Wilted Lettuce) for a fresh contrast. Consider slicing the pork thinly for sandwiches with a tangy mustard spread, or serve it with a side of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Golambki) for a hearty feast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover glazed pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the pork in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. You can also slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Glazed Pork contains roughly 580 calories, with 14g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (153% of the Daily Value), and iron (98% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 43g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

580 kcal 29% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.9g 28% DV
Total Fat 7g 9% DV
Carbs 137.6g 50% DV
Fiber 42.8g 100% DV
Sugar 39.8g 80% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 374.5mg 16% DV
Potassium 3273.1mg 70% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3000mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 67.1mg 75% DV
Calcium 601.6mg 46% DV
Iron 17.7mg 98% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a pork loin or even pork tenderloin, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Loin cuts are leaner and may require less cooking time to avoid drying out, so monitor the internal temperature closely.

What can I do with the cooking liquid?

The cooking liquid can be transformed into a flavorful broth. Strain it to remove the spices and fat, then reduce it on the stovetop to create a sauce for drizzling over the pork or use it as a base for soups or stews.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! For a slow cooker version, add the pork and spices with water to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until tender. Finish with the glaze in the last hour for that sticky sweetness.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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