Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin! This dish features a succulent pork loin cooked to perfection in a flavorful sauce made with crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and aromatic spices. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making it an ideal meal for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday gatherings.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: With the help of a slow cooker, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Just combine the ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker do the work!
- Tender and Juicy: Cooking the pork loin slowly allows it to absorb the delicious flavors from the sauce, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.
- Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of pineapple, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates a delightful balance of sweetness and umami that complements the pork perfectly.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish can be served on its own, over rice, or alongside roasted vegetables, making it adaptable to any meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well, making it a convenient choice for meal prep throughout the week.
Ingredients
To make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds pork loin : The star of the dish, providing tender and flavorful meat.
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice : Adds sweetness and moisture to the dish.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar : Enhances the sweetness and caramelizes during cooking.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce : Adds umami and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced : Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard : Adds a touch of tanginess and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger : Provides warmth and spice.
- Salt and pepper, to taste : Essential for seasoning.
- Optional: Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish : Adds a fresh touch when serving.
How to Make this Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin
- Season the Pork: Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the crushed pineapple (with juice), brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and ground ginger until well combined.
Step 3: Cook in the Slow Cooker
- Place in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork loin in the slow cooker. Pour the pineapple mixture over the top, ensuring the pork is well coated.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 4: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the top and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Success Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, use a boneless pork loin. Avoid using pork tenderloin, as it cooks more quickly and may dry out.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on the size of your pork loin and your specific slow cooker. Check for tenderness around the lower end of the cooking time.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can transfer the cooking juices to a saucepan after removing the pork, bring it to a simmer, and reduce it until it thickens.
Storage
To keep your Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pork loin for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other spices or ingredients, such as red pepper flakes for heat or pineapple chunks for added texture.
Nutrition
Each serving (based on 6 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 30g
(Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Pork Loin?
Yes, you can use frozen pork loin, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Ginger?
If you don’t have ground ginger, you can use fresh ginger or omit it altogether. The dish will still be flavorful without it.
Can I Cook This on the Stovetop?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Sear the pork loin in a Dutch oven, then add the sauce and simmer on low heat until tender, about 2-3 hours.
How Do I Know When the Pork Is Done?
The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender enough to shred easily.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With its tender pork, sweet and savory sauce, and a touch of garlic and ginger, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a flavorful meal that requires minimal effort and maximum satisfaction! ✨