Get ready to elevate your dinner game with our Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Juicy Sauce! This mouthwatering dish combines tender pork shoulder with a flavorful sauce that’s sure to impress. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Join us as we explore how to make this delicious dish, along with FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those with dietary preferences. Let’s dive in and make cooking a breeze!
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chili-garlic sauce or gochujang
- 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 1/2 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 2-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, chili-garlic sauce or gochujang, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil until well combined. Set aside.
- Season the Pork: Season the pork shoulder pieces with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork shoulder pieces in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the pork, ensuring that the pieces are evenly coated.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy.
- Shred and Serve: Once the pork is cooked to perfection, use two forks to shred the meat directly in the slow cooker. Toss the shredded pork in the flavorful sauce until well coated.
- Enjoy: Serve the juicy slow cooker pork shoulder hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the pork for added flavor and nutrition.
- Change up the Sauce: Experiment with different sauces or marinades to customize the flavor of the pork. Try barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a honey-garlic glaze for delicious variations.
- Finish on the Grill: For added depth of flavor, finish the shredded pork on the grill for a few minutes to achieve a caramelized crust before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content of the sauce. Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium alternative.
- Low-Carb Option: Omit the brown sugar altogether or use a minimal amount to suit your dietary needs. Increase the amount of chili-garlic sauce or gochujang for extra flavor without adding carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different cut of meat? A: While pork shoulder works best for this recipe due to its tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork butt or pork loin as alternatives.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This slow cooker pork shoulder can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover shredded pork can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with slow cooker pork shoulder? A: This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Q: Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce? A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of chili-garlic sauce or gochujang to suit your taste preferences. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
With its tender pork shoulder and flavorful sauce, our Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Juicy Sauce is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish delivers on taste and convenience. Plus, with our keto and low-carb variations, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal. So, fire up your slow cooker, sit back, and let it do the work while you enjoy the mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen. Get ready to savor every juicy bite of this irresistible dish!
