Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Recipe
Introduction
Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of succulent pork mingling with the sweet and tangy scent of pineapple. This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend meal, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Trim and cut the pork shoulder into chunks. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the red and yellow bell peppers.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Combine thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well-blended.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the pork chunks into the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell peppers on top. Pour the entire can of pineapple chunks along with the juice over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Finally, pour the mixed sauce over everything, ensuring the pork and vegetables are well coated.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model, so keep an eye on the pork to ensure it becomes tender and easily shreddable.
Step 5: Serve
Once the pork is fully cooked, give everything a good stir. The pork should be tender and the sauce should be well combined with the meat and vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve the pineapple pork over steamed rice or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Choosing the Pork: Pork shoulder or pork butt works best for this recipe as they become incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Trim excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
- Adjusting Sweetness and Heat: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid of the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce before serving.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork recipe is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty and delicious meal with your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Bon appétit!