Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a flavorful and tender dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory pork. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, offering a delicious balance of sweet and salty flavors. Let's explore the ingredients you'll need to create this delightful meal.
INGREDIENTS
- Pork Loin: Use a 2-3 lb pork loin, trimmed of excess fat for a leaner cut.
- Vegetable Oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps in browning the pork. Use 2 tablespoons.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a robust flavor. Use 8 cloves.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor. Use 1/4 cup.
- Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and a caramelized finish. Use 1/2 cup.
- Pineapple Chunks with Juice: Adds sweetness and tang. Use 1 (23.5 ounces) can.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Trim the pork loin of any excess fat and season generously with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Step 2:
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the pork loin and sear it on all sides until golden brown, about 2-4 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.
- Step 3:
- Transfer the browned pork loin to the slow cooker. Rub the minced garlic over the pork, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Step 4:
- Pour the soy sauce over the pork, followed by the pineapple chunks with their juice. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the pork.
- Step 5:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a soft pork loin that can still be sliced. For extra soft pork suitable for shredding, cook on low for 8-10 hours. During cooking, occasionally lift the lid and use a ladle to pour the juices over the pork to keep it moist.
- Step 6:
- If you prefer shredded pork, shred the pork after the initial cooking time, then return it to the slow cooker and cook on low for an additional hour to soak up more of the juices.
- Step 7:
- Serve the pork hot, drizzled with the pineapple and soy sauce mixture from the slow cooker. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve the Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin hot, with the delicious pineapple and soy sauce mixture drizzled over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider adding a simple green salad or some fresh fruit. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pork and sauce in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Helpful Notes
For a touch of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soy sauce mixture. You can also use fresh pineapple chunks for a slightly different texture and flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce in the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Tips from well-known chefs
Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests searing the pork loin before slow cooking to enhance the flavor and add a beautiful golden crust.
Chef Ina Garten recommends using fresh garlic for the best flavor, as it adds a more vibrant and aromatic quality to the dish.
Chef Jamie Oliver advises basting the pork with the juices periodically during cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.