Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/4 cup honey (substitute with maple syrup for a different sweetness)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening sauce)
Instructions
- Start by patting the pork cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. This step reminds me of Mama Lou’s careful attention to detail—she always said the secret to flavor begins with preparation.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the pork cubes in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are nicely browned. This caramelization is essential—it’s where the magic starts.
- Remove the browned pork from the skillet and set aside. Lower the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic and sliced jalapenos to the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. I always smile here, remembering how Ouma would sneak a jalapeno slice, daring herself to handle the spice.
- Pour in the soy sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Stir gently to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those bits hold so much flavor, just like the stories Mama Lou would tell during family dinners.
- Return the pork to the skillet, stirring to coat the meat evenly in the sauce. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes until glossy and clingy. This little trick was something Mama Lou taught me when I asked how to make sauces sing with texture.
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately, savoring the aroma as it fills your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
