SPICE-BRINED PORK ROAST

This brined and barbecued pork roast is unbelievably tender. Adding seasonings to the coals produces an awesome aroma that draws guests to the grill!

—LORRAINE SCHROEDER ALBANY, OR



PREP: 15 MIN. + CHILLING • GRILL:1/2 HOURS • MAKES: 10 SERVINGS


2 quarts water

8 orange peel strips (1 to 3 inches)

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup salt

3 tablespoons fennel seed, crushed

2 tablespoons dried thyme

2 tablespoons whole peppercorns

1 boneless rolled pork loin roast (4 pounds)

1. In a large saucepan, combine the first seven ingredients. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until salt and sugar are dissolved. Remove from the heat; cool to room temperature.

2. Place a large heavy-duty resealable plastic bag inside a second large resealable plastic bag; add the pork. Carefully pour cooled brine into bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible; seal bags and turn to coat. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours, turning several times. Strain brine; discard liquid and set aside seasonings. Lightly grease the grill rack. Prepare grill for indirect heat, using a drip pan. Add reserved seasonings to coals. Place pork over drip pan and grill, covered, over indirect medium heat for 1 1/2-2 hours or until a thermometer reads 160°. Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing.

Per 6 ounces cooked pork: 225 cal., 8g fat (3g sat. fat), 90mg chol., 75mg sod., 0 carb. (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 35g pro.

Diabetic Exchanges: 6 lean meat.