Elevate your culinary skills and delight your taste buds with our tantalizing Slow Cooker Roast Pork with Crackling recipe! This mouthwatering dish features tender, juicy pork roast infused with aromatic spices, perfectly complemented by crispy, golden crackling. With the convenience of your slow cooker, you can achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Join us on a gastronomic adventure as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to take your pork roast to new heights of flavor and indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds (1.4 to 1.8 kg) boneless pork roast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon salt (for crackling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork:
- Rinse the pork roast under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning rub.
- Season the Pork:
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the surface of the pork roast, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Slow Cooker Setup:
- Place the seasoned pork roast into the slow cooker.
- Add Liquid:
- Pour water into the slow cooker around the pork roast. Optionally, add apple cider vinegar for extra flavor.
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the pork roast on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Prepare Crackling:
- Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C).
- Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a baking dish or tray.
- Score and Salt the Skin:
- Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the pork roast in a crisscross pattern.
- Rub the skin with salt, ensuring it is well coated.
- Crackling in the Oven:
- Place the pork roast in the preheated oven and roast it for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the crackling is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the pork roast from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the roast pork with crackling alongside your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can season the pork roast with additional herbs and spices such as rosemary, sage, or cumin.
- To enhance the richness of the pork, consider searing it in a hot skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker.
- For a touch of sweetness, you can brush the pork roast with honey or maple syrup before roasting it in the oven to create a caramelized glaze.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the water with chicken broth or bone broth for added flavor without the carbs.
- Omit the optional apple cider vinegar to keep the recipe keto-friendly.
- Serve the roast pork with crackling alongside keto-friendly side dishes such as cauliflower mash or sautéed greens.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto adaptations mentioned above.
- Limit the amount of salt used for the crackling or opt for a low-sodium salt alternative.
- Serve the roast pork with crackling alongside low-carb vegetables such as roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed broccoli.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Roast Pork with Crackling recipe is a testament to the art of slow cooking and the joy of savoring succulent, flavorful meat. With its tender pork infused with aromatic spices and crispy, golden crackling, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to culinary perfection with this irresistible roast pork with crackling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a bone-in pork roast for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While boneless pork roast is preferred for ease of slicing, you can certainly use a bone-in pork roast if desired. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have a slow cooker? A: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can still enjoy this recipe by roasting the pork in the oven at a low temperature (around 275°F or 135°C) for several hours until tender. You can then follow the steps for preparing the crackling in the oven.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the pork roast in advance and store it in the refrigerator before roasting it in the oven to crisp up the crackling. Simply reheat the pork in the oven before serving to ensure it is heated through.
Q: What can I serve with the roast pork with crackling? A: This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a crisp salad. Choose your favorites to complement the rich flavors of the pork.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of the roast pork? A: While the pork can be frozen, the crackling may lose its crispiness upon thawing. It’s best to consume the roast pork with crackling fresh or refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days.
