Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin

Introduction

Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a delicious and easy dish that combines the savory flavors of pork with the sweet and tangy notes of pineapple. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it requires minimal hands-on time and results in tender, flavorful meat that practically falls apart. With a total cooking time of about 8 hours, this dish serves 6-8 people and pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

For the Pork Loin:

• 2-3 lbs (900g – 1.4kg) pork loin
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For Serving:

• Cooked rice or mashed potatoes
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Meat thermometer (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade (Time: 10 minutes)

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the crushed pineapple (with juice), soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt until well combined.

2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork loin in the slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is well coated. If you have time, let the pork marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor, but this step is optional.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Pork (Time: 8 hours)

1. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. The longer cooking time will yield more tender results. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours, but low and slow is recommended for the best texture.

2. Check for Doneness: If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature of the pork should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. However, for a more tender result, aim for an internal temperature of around 190°F (88°C), which allows the connective tissues to break down.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce (Optional) (Time: 5 minutes)

1. Remove the Pork: Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

2. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, turn the slow cooker to high. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Serve (Time: 5 minutes)

1. Slice and Serve: Slice the pork loin into thick pieces and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the pork or serve it on the side.

2. Garnish: If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for added color and flavor.

3. Pair with Sides: Serve the pineapple pork loin with cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash for a comforting touch.
• A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 800mg

Tips and Variations

• Add Vegetables: For a complete one-pot meal, consider adding chopped carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños to the marinade.
• Use Fresh Pineapple: For an even fresher flavor, use diced fresh pineapple instead of canned. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more brown sugar if needed.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is an easy and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends without requiring hours of cooking. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory pork creates a delightful balance that is both satisfying and delicious. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Enjoy the convenience of the slow cooker and the delightful flavors of this mouthwatering dish