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

Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker recipes have become a beloved staple in many households, and for good reason! The combination of tender, juicy pork and the sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. As I reminisce about family gatherings, I can’t help but recall the delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen as this dish slowly cooked to perfection. This recipe is a nod to the fusion of flavors that many cultures embrace, particularly in Hawaiian and Asian cuisines, where sweet and savory meld beautifully.

People adore this Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker dish for its convenience and ease of preparation. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a meal that feels gourmet. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a tender texture that melts in your mouth. Whether served over rice or alongside fresh vegetables, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

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 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 will help reduce the greasiness of 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 red pepper flakes (if using). Toss the pork until it’s evenly coated with the seasonings. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the meat.

Making the Sauce

3. 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. 4. Pour the pineapple chunks with their juice into the sauce mixture. Stir gently to combine. The pineapple will add a lovely sweetness and acidity to the dish, making it incredibly flavorful.

Layering in the Slow Cooker

5. Now it’s time to assemble everything in the slow cooker. Start by placing half of the sliced onions and bell peppers at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the pork. 6. Next, add the seasoned pork pieces on top of the vegetables. Make sure to spread them out evenly for even cooking. 7. Pour the pineapple sauce mixture over the pork, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. The sauce will seep into the pork as it cooks, making it tender and juicy. 8. Finally, top with the remaining sliced onions and bell peppers. This will add texture and flavor to the dish as it cooks.

Cooking Process

9. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I prefer the low setting for a more tender result, but both methods work well. 10. About halfway through the cooking time, I like to give the slow cooker a gentle stir to ensure that the pork is cooking evenly and that the sauce is well distributed. This is optional but can help with flavor distribution. 11. When the cooking time is up, check the pork for tenderness. It should be fork-tender and easily shred with a fork. If it’s not quite there, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.

Shredding the Pork

12. Once the pork is tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. This step is essential as it allows the pork to soak up more of the sauce when served. 13. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce. This will ensure that every piece is coated in that delicious pineapple barbecue sauce.

Serving the Dish

14. To serve, prepare a bed of cooked rice or quinoa on each plate. The grains will soak up the flavorful sauce and complement the pork beautifully. 15. Spoon the pineapple pork mixture over the rice or quinoa, making sure to include plenty of the sauce and vegetables. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and pineapple will make your dish visually appealing. 16. For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top. This adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color to the dish. 17. Enjoy your Pineapple Pork Slow Cooker dish with family and friends! The combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Storage and Reheating

18. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the leftovers even tastier. 19. To

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 a bed of quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sliced bell peppers or jalapeños to the slow cooker for an extra kick, or swap 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