Rio Grande Pork Roast
A flavorful roasted pork dish with a tangy barbecue and jelly glaze, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests seeking a savory, sweet, and mildly spicy main course.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the surfaces of the pork roast with garlic pepper.
- Place the roast in a shallow pan and roast in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Combine barbecue sauce, jelly, and chili powder in a small bowl to make the basting sauce.
- Pour the basting sauce over the roast and continue roasting, basting occasionally, until a meat thermometer registers 155°F, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Remove pan drippings to a small saucepan, add enough water to make one cup, and bring to a boil.
- Boil for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Serve the sauce on the side with the sliced roast.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork roast overnight with garlic pepper and a touch of the basting sauce. If you don't have garlic pepper, a mix of garlic powder and black pepper works well. You can also swap out the barbecue sauce for a spicy variant if you prefer more heat. For a unique twist, try using a fruit preserve like apricot instead of apple or grape jelly.
Serving Suggestions
This Rio Grande Pork Roast pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Family Reunion Baked Beans or Hill Of Beans Salad for a hearty, satisfying dinner. Don't forget to offer the pan sauce on the side for an extra layer of flavor with each bite.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork roast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the roast and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave slices on a plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rio Grande Pork Roast contains roughly 86 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 substitute a pork tenderloin or shoulder for the boneless pork roast, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Tenderloin cooks faster, so check for doneness at around 20 minutes, while shoulder may require longer due to its size.
What if I don't have barbecue sauce?
If you're out of barbecue sauce, a combination of ketchup, vinegar, and a bit of brown sugar can create a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use a homemade version by mixing tomato sauce with Worcestershire sauce and spices to taste.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this in a slow cooker, sear the pork roast first for flavor, then place it in the slow cooker with the basting sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and reaches the desired temperature.
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).