How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I substitute Merquén with another spice?

You can use smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne as an alternative.

Can I make the apple compote ahead of time?

Yes, the compote can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Reheat it before serving.

What happens if I don’t have time to marinate overnight?

Marinate for at least 4 hours, or as long as possible, to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.

Is this dish suitable for a grill instead of an oven?

Yes, adjust the cooking time as needed and ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Chilean Merquén-Brined Roast Pork with Apple Compote

Name: Chilean Merquén-Brined Roast Pork with Apple Compote
Prep time: 6 h
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 1 liter water; 1/4 cup kosher salt; 3 tbsp merquén (Chilean smoked chili pepper); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 1.5 kg pork loin roast; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp black pepper; 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 cinnamon stick; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp dijon mustard

A spicy, smoky pork roast paired with a sweet-tart apple compote

Experience the fusion of Chilean flavors with a merquén spiced brine for tender pork, complemented by a delightful apple compote.

6 h (including marinating)
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Merquén Brine

1 liter water

1/4 cup kosher salt

3 tbsp merquén (Chilean smoked chili pepper)

2 tbsp brown sugar

2 cloves garlic, crushed

For the Pork

1.5 kg pork loin roast

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp black pepper

For the Apple Compote

4 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cinnamon stick

For the Glaze

1/4 cup honey

2 tbsp dijon mustard

Preparation

Marinating the Pork

Boil the brine

In a large pot, combine water, salt, merquén, brown sugar, and garlic. Bring to a boil.

Pre-chill the brine with ice cubes after boiling to hasten cooling.

Cool and brine the pork

Allow the brine to cool completely, then pour over the pork loin in a deep dish.

Ensure the pork is fully submerged in the brine for complete flavor infusion.

Refrigerate

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Preparing the Apple Compote

Combine compote ingredients

In a saucepan, combine apples, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon stick.

Simmer

Simmer over medium heat until apples are soft, about 15 minutes.

Finish compote

Discard the cinnamon stick and mash lightly for a chunky texture.

Cooking Process

Roasting the Pork

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Remove pork from brine, pat dry, rub with olive oil and pepper, place in a roasting pan.

Glazing the Pork

Mix honey and dijon mustard, brush over pork in the last 15 minutes of roasting.

Resting the Pork

Allow the pork to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Plating & Serving