This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a winner! Tender pork mixed with sweet and tangy pineapple creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for any gathering!
I love how the slow cooker does all the work while I can just relax. Plus, the smell fills the house, and it’s hard not to sneak a taste before serving! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This is the star of the dish! I recommend using a pork loin for its lean texture and rich flavor. However, you could use pork tenderloin or shoulder, but the cooking time may vary.
Pineapple Chunks: Canned pineapple is super convenient, but fresh pineapple adds a nice touch if you have it. Just peel and chop it into chunks. If pineapple isn’t your thing, try peaches or apricots for a different fruit flavor.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings the umami! If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (a gluten-free option). Coconut aminos is another flavorful substitution.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds sweetness. You can use white sugar if that’s what you have, or even honey or maple syrup, but adjust according to taste since these are sweeter.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best, but if you only have powdered garlic or ginger, you can substitute them. Just use about a teaspoon of each for a quick fix, though the flavor may be milder.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Loin is Tender and Juicy?
To get a tender and juicy pork loin, the key is in cooking it slowly and at the right temperature. Here’s how:
- Start by trimming excess fat but leave some for flavor.
- Consider searing the pork in olive oil. This helps lock in juices and adds a nice crust.
- Don’t rush the cooking process. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours works best. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the pork to become tender.
- Finally, letting the pork rest after cooking is crucial. It helps redistribute the juices, keeping your meat moist when sliced.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin
- 1 can (15 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice (drained, reserving juice)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger (fresh or ground)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and the cooking time can vary from 3 to 8 hours, depending on whether you use the high or low setting on your slow cooker. So, it’s a great meal to prepare ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Loin:
Start by trimming off any excess fat from the pork loin. Pat it dry using paper towels to ensure it gets nice and seasoned. Then, sprinkle salt and black pepper all over the pork to add flavor. Simple and quick!
2. Sear the Pork (Optional):
If you want to add a bit more flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the pork loin in the skillet and sear it on all sides until it turns a lovely golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. You can skip this step if you prefer a quicker method!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, take the reserved pineapple juice and combine it with soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and the optional red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Stir everything together until the brown sugar dissolves nicely into the sauce.
4. Slow Cook:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Place the seared pork loin into your slow cooker and pour the delicious sauce over it. Add the pineapple chunks around the meat to soak up all those wonderful flavors while cooking.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the pork to reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F. Cooking it low and slow makes the pork tender and juicy!
6. Rest and Slice:
Once it’s done cooking, carefully take the pork loin out of the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps keep it nice and moist. After that, slice the pork into juicy pieces.
7. Serve:
Serve the slices of pork with those flavorful pineapple chunks and some of the tasty sauce drizzled over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on it for an extra pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat Instead of Pork Loin?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork shoulder or pork tenderloin for pork loin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; pork shoulder might take longer to become tender, while pork tenderloin will cook faster, so check for doneness accordingly.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you need a gluten-free option, try using tamari instead of soy sauce. For a lower-sodium alternative, look for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, which also provide a similar umami flavor with less salt.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added flavor and nutrition! Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and scatter them around the pork in the slow cooker. They may need to be added halfway through cooking to prevent overcooking!
How to Store Leftovers Properly?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stove. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just make sure to label the container with the date for reference!
