Southwest Pork Loin Roast
A flavorful Southwest-inspired pork loin roast glazed with chili powder and red currant jelly, perfect for hearty family dinners with a spicy-sweet kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll the pork roast in half of the chili powder.
- Combine the remaining chili powder with the red currant jelly and heat on low in a small saucepan.
- Use half of this glaze to pour over the roast in the pan.
- Cover and bake at 350° to 375°F for 75 to 90 minutes, adjusting time based on oven and roast size.
- When the roast is done, remove cover and spoon the remaining glaze over it.
- Set aside until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork loin in the chili powder overnight. If you don't have red currant jelly, cranberry or apricot preserves can work as substitutes. Adjust the chili powder to suit your heat preference. This dish pairs well with sides like sautéed vegetables or mashed potatoes, similar to other pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southwest Pork Loin Roast sliced, drizzled with the remaining glaze. It pairs well with sides like fried corn with bacon or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider offering baked beans or cornbread alongside. This dish is great for gatherings and can be complemented with your favorite barbecue sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pork loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a baking dish with a little broth to keep it moist and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwest Pork Loin Roast contains roughly 101 calories, with 8g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g 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 use a pork tenderloin or shoulder, but cooking times may vary. Tenderloins typically cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly to avoid drying out.
What can I serve with the Southwest Pork Loin Roast?
Pair it with sides like sautéed vegetables, rice, or cornbread for a well-rounded meal. A refreshing salad or coleslaw can also provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
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).