Are you searching for a mouthwatering and easy-to-make dish that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than our Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork recipe! This delectable dish combines succulent pork loin roast with the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple, creating a flavor sensation that will leave you craving more. Plus, with the convenience of your slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly while you go about your day. Join us as we explore how to make this irresistible Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork and elevate your dinner game!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s address some common questions about Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork:
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe? A: While we recommend using pork loin roast for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork shoulder or pork tenderloin if preferred. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require different cooking times.
Q: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can substitute canned pineapple chunks for fresh if necessary. Just be sure to drain the pineapple juice before adding it to the slow cooker.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and freeze it? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the ingredients in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze it for up to three months. When ready to cook, simply thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator before transferring it to the slow cooker.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients and prepare to make this tantalizing Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lb pork loin roast
- 1 sliced onion
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp salt
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 2 cups diced fresh pineapple chunks
- Optional: 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
- Pat the pork loin roast dry with paper towels, then season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Pork:
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin roast and sear it on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dark brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic cloves, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
- Place the sliced onion and diced fresh pineapple chunks around the seared pork loin roast in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork and pineapple.
5. Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the pork on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Shred the Pork:
- Once the pork is cooked through, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded pork and pineapple until evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork hot over cooked rice or quinoa, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions, if desired. Enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a tangier flavor, you can add a splash of fresh lime juice or orange juice to the sauce mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Keto Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, you can substitute the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener, such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Reduce the amount of sweetener used to taste, as some varieties may be sweeter than others.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above, and serve the Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or quinoa to keep it low in carbs.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender pork, juicy pineapple chunks, and irresistible sweet and savory sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the convenience of your slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a delicious meal that will impress your loved ones with minimal effort. So, give this recipe a try and savor the tropical flavors of our Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork tonight!
