Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork is a vibrant and delicious dish that effortlessly combines sweet and savory flavors into one irresistible meal. Imagine tender, juicy pork loin slow-cooked to perfection, infused with a tangy marinade made from dark brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and aromatic garlic. The addition of fresh pineapple not only lends a tropical sweetness but also creates a delightful contrast to the rich, savory pork. This recipe transforms a simple pork loin roast into an exotic feast, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion when you crave something a little different. The slow cooker method ensures that the pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, soaking up all the bold flavors of the marinade while the pineapple softens and melds into the sauce, creating a delectable gravy that is both sweet and slightly tangy.
What makes this dish truly special is its ease of preparation combined with the impressive depth of flavor it delivers. By browning the pork beforehand, you lock in savory goodness, and the slow cooking process allows every ingredient to harmonize beautifully. The marinade, enriched with crushed red pepper flakes (if desired), offers a subtle kick that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the dish. This recipe not only brings a taste of the tropics to your table but also makes cleanup and cooking a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the process and the delightful results. Whether served over rice or alongside your favorite sides, Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork promises a memorable dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Easy and Convenient: Simply brown the pork, assemble in your slow cooker, and let it do all the work.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors creates a unique and irresistible taste.
• Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking transforms the pork into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness every time.
• Versatile Presentation: Serve sliced for a hearty meal or shredded for a pulled pork-style dish with luscious gravy.
Ingredients:
• 2-3 lb pork loin roast
• 1 onion, sliced
• Extra virgin olive oil (for browning)
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
Detailed Instructions:
1. Brown the Pork: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil into a skillet and heat over medium. Brown the pork loin roast on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side to develop a rich sear. Once browned, transfer the pork to your slow cooker.
2. Add the Onions: Scatter the sliced onion around the pork in the slow cooker. For extra flavor, you can sauté the onions in the same skillet before adding them in.
3. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, soy sauce, salt, minced garlic, and, if using, crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this marinade evenly over the pork and onions in the slow cooker.
4. Incorporate the Pineapple: Dice the fresh pineapple and add it to the slow cooker, distributing it evenly around the pork.
5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and has absorbed the vibrant flavors of the marinade.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, allowing the sauce to thicken.
7. Finish and Serve: Once done, slice the pork into thick pieces or shred it for a pulled pork-style presentation. Pour the sauce over the pork and pineapple, or serve it on the side as a gravy. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy!
Tips:
• Browning the pork before slow cooking enhances the flavor by creating a caramelized crust.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.
• For extra tanginess, consider adding a splash more apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking.
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork as a flavorful, tropical twist to your meal!
