Introduction to Slow Cooker Roast Pork
Why a Slow Cooker?
The slow cooking process provides an unmatched tenderness and juiciness you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. The low and steady heat breaks down the tough connective tissues in the pork, allowing the flavors to meld together, resulting in an intensely flavorful and delicious roast.
Using a slow cooker for roast pork is also super convenient. Simply season the pork, place it in the slow cooker, and let it cook for several hours. There’s no need to constantly monitor it or adjust the heat (depending on the specific recipe). This hands-off approach frees up time for other tasks, letting you to go about your day while the slow cooker works its magic.
Tips for Choosing the Right Cut of Pork for Slow Cooking
One popular cut is the pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt. This cut is well-marbled and fatty, which helps to keep the meat moist and tender during the long cooking process.
Another option is the pork loin, which is leaner and more tender. However, this cut can dry out if cooked for too long in a slow cooker. To prevent this, keep your eye on the meat and monitor the cooking time.
For a flavorful and succulent roast, consider using a bone-in cut of pork. The bone adds extra flavor to the meat and helps to keep it moist. Whether you choose a bone-in or boneless cut, make sure to trim any excess fat before cooking to avoid greasy results.
East Asian-Inspired Roast Pork
Chinese Char Siu Pork
Chinese Char Siu Pork is a popular dish known for its sweet and savory flavors, best brought out by a slow cooker. Marinate the meat with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder, before placing the marinated pork in the slow cooker. Let it cook on low heat for several hours until it’s juicy and falls apart easily. Serve the Char Siu Pork with steamed rice or in a fluffy bun for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Korean Bossam
To make Bossam, the pork belly is slow cooked until it becomes tender and succulent. The slow cooker is a fantastic option for cooking the pork belly; not only does it allow for even and consistent cooking throughout, but is also absorbs the flavors of the spices and seasonings, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Once the pork belly is cooked, it can be sliced and served with fresh lettuce leaves, kimchi, pickled radishes, and a spicy dipping sauce for a truly authentic Korean dining experience.
European Roast Pork
British Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a classic dish in British cuisine, and using a slow cooker is the perfect way to make it tender and flavorful. Start by rubbing a pork shoulder with a mixture of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker and add a combination of apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with coleslaw and pickles for a traditional British pulled pork sandwich.
German Schweinebraten
This German roast pork is made with a pork shoulder, which is marinated in a mixture of mustard, garlic, caraway seeds, and paprika. Before transferring to the slow cooker, sear the meat on all sides to create a crispy crust. Add onions, carrots, and a touch of beer or broth to the slow cooker to create a flavorful cooking liquid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together. Serve the German Schweinebraten with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.
American Roast Pork
Southern BBQ Pulled Pork
To make this mouthwatering dish in your slow cooker, start by rubbing a pork shoulder with paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Place the seasoned pork into the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Toss the shredded pork in your favorite BBQ sauce and return it to the slow cooker on the warm setting for an additional 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve the Southern BBQ pulled pork on soft buns with coleslaw for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Tex-Mex Carnitas
The process of making the pork for carnitas is similar to American pulled pork. To make this dish, start by seasoning a pork shoulder with cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Brown the seasoned pork in a skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. Add onions, garlic, and orange juice to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Place the shredded pork back into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to crisp up the edges. Serve the Tex-Mex carnitas in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and cilantro.
African Roast Pork
Moroccan Spiced Roast Pork
For a unique twist on slow cooker roast pork, try the flavorful Moroccan spiced version. The slow cooker helps to tenderize the meat while allowing the spices to infuse every bite. Start by marinating the pork overnight in a mixture of cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and ginger. In the morning, place the marinated pork in the slow cooker along with some diced onions, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice for added brightness. Let the slow cooker work its magic for 6-8 hours on low heat, and you’ll be rewarded with succulent and aromatic Moroccan spiced roast pork. Serve this delicious dish with couscous and a side of roasted vegetables for a complete Moroccan-inspired feast.
South African Pot Roast Pork
Take a culinary journey to South Africa with a slow cooker pot roast pork that is sure to impress. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings. Start by searing the pork roast in a hot pan to lock in the flavors. Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker and add a combination of aromatic spices like coriander, cloves, and allspice. To enhance the flavors, toss some chopped onions, carrots, and celery in the slow cooker, before letting the food cook for 6-8 hours. The result is a succulent and flavorful pot roast pork that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice.
South American Roast Pork
Cuban Mojo Pork
Cuban Mojo Pork is a delicious and flavorful slow cooker dish that will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean. The slow cooker is the perfect tool to achieve juicy pork infused with the vibrant, citrusy flavors.
Start by marinating the pork shoulder in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, and oregano. The slow cooker allows the meat to soak up all the flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering and succulent roast. Serve the Cuban Mojo Pork with rice and beans for a complete and satisfying meal. The slow cooker not only saves you time in the kitchen but also ensures that every bite is bursting with the authentic taste of Cuban cuisine.
Brazilian Feijoada
Made with black beans, various cuts of pork such as bacon, sausage, and ribs, and seasoned with garlic, onions, and spices, Feijoada is a true taste of Brazil. Serve Feijoada with white rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices for a complete Brazilian feast. The slow cooker effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering and satisfying meal that will have you coming back for more.
