Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Family

Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker recipes are a delightful way to bring tropical flavors into your home, transforming a simple meal into a culinary adventure. As I first discovered this dish, I was captivated by the sweet and savory combination that perfectly complements tender, slow-cooked pork. This recipe not only showcases the vibrant taste of pineapple but also pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of various cultures that celebrate the harmony of fruit and meat.

People love Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker dishes for their incredible taste and texture. The juicy pineapple infuses the pork with a sweet tang, while the slow cooking process ensures that every bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Plus, the convenience of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Join me as we explore this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice, undrained
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color you prefer)
• 1 onion, sliced
• Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Preparing the Pork

1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. This helps to reduce greasiness in the final dish. Cut the pork into 2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. 2. In a large bowl, combine the pork pieces with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Toss the pork until it’s evenly coated with the seasonings. 3. Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a splash of oil and sear the pork pieces in batches. This step is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor. Sear each piece for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.

Preparing the Sauce

4. In a separate bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk until well combined. The sweetness from the pineapple and brown sugar will balance the savory flavors of the pork and soy sauce. 5. Pour the pineapple chunks with their juice into the slow cooker. This will serve as the base for the sauce and will infuse the pork with a sweet and tangy flavor. 6. Add the seared pork pieces on top of the pineapple in the slow cooker. Make sure to pour any remaining juices from the skillet over the pork for added flavor. 7. Pour the prepared sauce over the pork, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.

Adding Vegetables

8. Slice the bell pepper and onion. You can use any color of bell pepper you like; I usually go for red or yellow for a pop of color. Scatter the sliced vegetables over the pork and sauce in the slow cooker. 9. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it on low, the more tender the pork will become.

Cooking Process

10. About halfway through the cooking time, I like to give the slow cooker a gentle stir to ensure that the pork and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. This also helps to prevent any sticking to the sides. 11. As the pork cooks, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the pineapple will break down, creating a luscious sauce. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds apart.

Shredding the Pork

12. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid from the slow cooker. The steam will be hot, so be cautious. Using two forks, shred the pork directly in the slow cooker. It should fall apart easily. 13. Stir the shredded pork back into the sauce and mix well. This will ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.

Serving the Dish

14. To serve, prepare a bed of cooked rice or quinoa on each plate. The grains will soak up the delicious sauce and complement the pork perfectly. 15. Spoon generous portions of the pineapple pork mixture over the rice. Make sure to include some of the bell peppers and onions for added color and texture. 16. For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch and a pop of color. You can also add a few extra pineapple chunks if you like. 17. Enjoy your delicious Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker dish! It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. The leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Storage Tips

18. If you have any leftovers, let the dish cool

Conclusion:

In summary, this Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender pork, sweet pineapple, and savory spices creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this dish with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce. You could also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick, or even swapping out the pork for chicken or tofu for a different twist. I truly encourage you to give this Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking! Print