Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Recipe

Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork that you can make at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (or pork loin)
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks (drained, but save the juice)
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Rice or noodles (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork:
   • Season the pork shoulder (or loin) with salt and pepper on all sides.
   • Place the pork in the slow cooker.
2. Make the Pineapple Sauce:
   • In a bowl, mix the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves.
   • Pour the sauce over the pork in the slow cooker.
   • Add the diced onion and pineapple chunks on top.
3. Slow Cook the Pork:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork:
   • Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred the meat. Discard any excess fat.
   • Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir it in with the sauce.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker and stir. Let it cook on high for about 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the pineapple pork over rice or noodles, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Tips:

• For extra flavor: You can sear the pork in a hot pan before placing it in the slow cooker, although this step is optional.
• Pineapple chunks or slices: You can use either, but chunks tend to break down into the sauce better.
• Sweet and savory balance: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your sweetness preference.

Enjoy this tropical, tender, and flavorful dish!