Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory flavors of pork with the sweet and tangy taste of pineapple. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, tenderizing the pork loin while infusing it with the vibrant flavors of pineapple and complementary seasonings. Whether served over rice or alongside vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin.
INGREDIENTS
2-3 lb pork loin (trimmed of excess fat)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
salt and pepper
8 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 23.5 ounces can pineapple chunks with juice
US CustomaryMetric
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INSTRUCTIONS
Trim pork loin of excess fat, season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add oil, once the oil is hot, add the pork loin and brown on each side for about 2-4 minutes or until golden.
Add the pork to the slow cooker, rub with garlic. Add soy sauce and pineapple chunks with pineapple juice to the slow cooker. Distribute the brown sugar evenly over the top of the pork.
Put the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, for a soft pork loin, that can still be sliced.
NOTE: If you want the pork extra soft, to make shredded pineapple pork, cook it on low for 8-10 hours, making sure during the cooking process, to lift the lid a few times and using a ladle pour the juices over the pork in order to keep it moist. After you shred the pork, add it back to the slow cooker and cook it on low for another hour.
Variations:
- Spicy Pineapple Pork Loin: Add a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for added sweetness.
- Teriyaki Twist: Substitute some of the pineapple juice with teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the slow cooker for a more aromatic profile.
- Fruit Mix: Combine pineapple with other fruits like mango or peaches for a tropical twist.
Tips:
- Searing the Pork: Before placing the pork loin in the slow cooker, sear it in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side. This step adds extra flavor and helps to lock in juices.
- Pineapple Choices: Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor or canned pineapple chunks for convenience. Just be sure to drain the pineapple well if using canned.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or onions for a complete one-pot meal.
- Resting Time: Let the pork loin rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender.
To store Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin, follow these steps:
- Cool: Allow the pork loin to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the meat from becoming soggy.
- Portion: Slice or shred the pork loin as desired and place it in airtight containers. If you have leftover sauce, store it separately to maintain the best texture of the meat.
- Refrigerate: Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to eat the leftovers within 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork loin. Place the meat and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers, and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, thaw frozen pork loin in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or broth to keep it moist. If reheating from the refrigerator, you can use the microwave or reheat gently on the stovetop.