This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a tasty dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors. With tender pork and juicy pineapple, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Who knew cooking could be so easy? I love throwing everything in the slow cooker and letting it do its magic while I sip on some coffee. Perfect for busy days! ☕️
The best part? The pork becomes super tender and full of flavor. I like to serve it with rice to soak up all the yummy juice. You’ll want seconds for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: A 2 to 3 lbs pork loin is ideal for this recipe. If you want a leaner option, you can use a pork tenderloin, though cooking times may vary.
Pineapple: Using canned pineapple is super convenient. If you prefer fresh, chop up a fresh pineapple. Just remember to add a bit of juice or water for moisture.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, try tamari instead of regular soy sauce. You can also use coconut aminos as a milder alternative.
Brown Sugar: If you are aiming for a lower sugar version, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like maple syrup, adjusting to taste.
Ground Ginger: If you don’t have ground ginger, fresh ginger can work! Use about a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger instead for a bright flavor.
How Do I Get My Pork Loin to Have Great Flavor?
Searing the pork loin is a key step! This not only locks in juices but also adds a lovely depth of flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the pork dry so it sears perfectly without steaming. A dry surface is essential!
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding oil. You want a good sizzle when the meat hits the pan.
- Try not to overcrowd the pan. If your skillet isn’t big enough, sear in batches.
Once your pork is golden brown, the stage is set for a deliciously flavored dish!
Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, it’s an easy fix! Just follow these steps:
- After cooking, remove the pork and stir in a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water).
- Cook the sauce on high for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
This makes a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pork. Personal tip: adjust the thickness to your preference; sometimes a thinner sauce works perfectly with rice!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 lbs pork loin
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve the juice)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pineapple pork loin takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high). Just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Loin:
First, take your pork loin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps it to brown better. Next, sprinkle salt and black pepper all over the pork to season it well. Don’t be shy; this adds flavor!
2. Sear the Pork:
Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned pork loin. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes or until it’s golden brown. This step is great for adding extra flavor and color to your pork.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pork is searing, you can make the sauce! In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir it well until the sugar dissolves and everything is nicely combined.
4. Slow Cook the Pork:
Once the pork is nicely seared, place it in your slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the pork, then add the drained pineapple chunks around it. This will make everything even more delicious as it cooks!
5. Cook:
Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. If you have time, cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours is best, but you can also set it on high for 3 to 4 hours. The pork is ready when it’s tender and can easily be shredded with a fork.
6. Optional Thickening:
If you like your sauce a little thicker, here’s a simple trick! Once the pork is cooked, carefully take it out of the slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce left in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken it up.
7. Serve:
Slice the pork loin and place it onto a serving platter. Add the delicious pineapple chunks around it, drizzle some of the sauce over the top, and finally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a beautiful garnish!
8. Enjoy:
Your lovely pineapple pork loin is now ready to serve! Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes to soak up all that yummy sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pork loin with pork shoulder or pork tenderloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Pork shoulder will require a longer cooking time due to its size and fat content, while tenderloin cooks quicker, so you may need to reduce the cooking time to prevent it from drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No worries! You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute. Both will impart a similar umami flavor to your dish. For a homemade substitute, combine 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce with a splash of apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before. Just place the seared pork and sauce in the slow cooker liner, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just set it on low and let it cook while you’re away!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pork in portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat it either in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of water to keep it moist.
