Introduction to Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork
Get ready for a mouthwatering meal with this Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork! Tender, juicy pork slow-cooked to perfection with a delicious blend of sweet pineapple and savory seasonings, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a tropical twist. Perfect for busy days, this easy-to-make dish requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this pineapple pork will quickly become a crowd favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork
This Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork is a game-changer for busy families. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both sweet and savory. Plus, it’s versatile! Serve it over rice, in tacos, or even on a salad. You’ll love how it brings everyone to the table with smiles!
Ingredients for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Pork shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and juicy as it cooks.
Sea salt: A must for enhancing the natural flavors of the pork.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Coconut oil: Ideal for searing the pork, it adds a hint of tropical flavor.
Pineapple juice: The star of the show! It infuses the pork with sweetness and acidity.
Fresh pineapple: Diced for texture and a burst of fresh flavor in every bite.
Tamari sauce: A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, it adds depth and umami.
Dark brown sugar: This sweetener caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Garlic: Finely chopped, it brings a savory note that complements the sweetness.
Freshly grated ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, making the dish even more aromatic.
Crushed red pepper (optional): For those who like a little heat, this is a great addition!
Sliced green onions: These are perfect for garnishing, adding a fresh crunch to your dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can swap the pork shoulder for chicken thighs for a lighter option or add jalapeños for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless!
How to Make Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish. Follow along, and I promise you’ll have a tropical feast in no time!
Step 1: Season the Pork
Start by seasoning the pork shoulder with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the meat. Make sure to coat all sides evenly. It’s like giving your pork a warm hug of flavor!
Step 2: Sear the Pork
Next, heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chunks and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step is crucial! Searing locks in the juices and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, diced pineapple, tamari sauce, dark brown sugar, chopped garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous). Stir well until everything is nicely blended. This sauce is the heart of your Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork, bursting with tropical goodness!
Step 4: Combine in Slow Cooker
Now, pour that luscious sauce over the seared pork in the slow cooker. Make sure the pork is well-coated. This is where the magic happens! The sauce will seep into the meat, making it incredibly flavorful and tender.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better! You want the pork to be fork-tender and easy to shred. Just imagine the aroma filling your home while it cooks!
Step 6: Shred the Pork
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to shred the pork. Use two forks to pull the meat apart right in the slow cooker. Mix it thoroughly with the sauce for maximum flavor. This step is so satisfying, and the smell will have everyone gathering around!
Step 7: Serve
Finally, serve your Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork over a bed of fluffy rice or in soft tortillas. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and bring smiles to the table!
Tips for Success
Always season your pork generously for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the searing step; it adds depth to the dish.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days—perfect for meal prep!
Equipment Needed
Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe; any size will do, but a 6-quart is ideal.
Skillet: Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for searing the pork.
Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl for combining the sauce ingredients.
Forks: Two forks are perfect for shredding the pork.
Variations
Chicken Thighs: Swap the pork shoulder for chicken thighs for a lighter option. Adjust cooking time to 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetarian Version: Use jackfruit instead of pork for a plant-based alternative that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
Fruit Medley: Mix in other tropical fruits like mango or papaya for a fruity twist that enhances the dish.
Low-Sugar Option: Substitute the dark brown sugar with a sugar alternative like coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork over fluffy jasmine rice for a comforting meal.
For a fun twist, use soft tortillas to create delicious tacos.
Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the flavors.
A tropical fruit smoothie makes a delightful drink alongside this dish.
FAQs about Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork
Can I use frozen pork shoulder for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork shoulder! Just make sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and searing. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a kick, add crushed red pepper or sliced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra layer of heat!
What can I serve with Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, soft tortillas, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork and sauce the night before, store them in the fridge, and then cook them in the slow cooker the next day. It’s a great time-saver!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork is gluten-free! Just ensure you use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce, and you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your home will draw your family together, sparking joy and conversation. Each bite is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, transporting you to a tropical paradise. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the flavors, and let the slow cooker work its magic!
A delicious and tropical dish featuring pulled pork glazed with pineapple, perfect for a slow cooker meal.
Ingredients
2 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 cup pineapple juice
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1/2 cup tamari sauce
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by seasoning the pork shoulder pieces with sea salt and black pepper evenly on all sides.
Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks and sear them until they develop a golden-brown crust, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, place the pork into the slow cooker.
In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, diced pineapple, tamari sauce, dark brown sugar, chopped garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper (if desired). Stir well to create a flavorful sauce.
Pour the sauce mixture over the seared pork in the slow cooker, ensuring the meat is well-coated.
Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shredded.
After cooking, use two forks to shred the pork directly in the slow cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the sauce for maximum flavor.
Serve the tropical pulled pork over a bed of fluffy rice or in soft tortillas, topped with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
Notes
For an extra layer of heat, toss in sliced jalapeños with the other ingredients in the slow cooker.
Swap out the pork shoulder for chicken thighs for a lighter dish, adjusting the cooking time to 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
