Slow cooker pork roast is a classic dish that never fails to impress with its tender, juicy meat and rich, savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can enjoy a mouthwatering pork roast that will have everyone coming back for seconds. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect slow cooker pork roast, including ingredient lists, cooking instructions, helpful tips, and even keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound pork roast (shoulder or loin)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Roast: Trim any excess fat from the pork roast and season it generously with salt and pepper. Place the sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce or tamari, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork roast on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the pork roast, making sure it is evenly coated.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the pork roast on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, you can thicken the sauce by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the pork roast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding. Serve the pork roast with the delicious sauce spooned over the top.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic, such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers, for a complete one-pot meal.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your pork roast. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage work well, as do spices like paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: For a tangy twist, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a hint of acidity.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
- Sugar Substitute: Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia to keep the carb count low.
- Serve with Cauliflower Rice: Instead of serving the pork roast with traditional starches like potatoes or rice, opt for cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?
A: Yes, you can use other cuts of pork such as pork shoulder or pork loin for this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut and size of the pork roast.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Allow the leftover pork roast to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Q: Can I cook vegetables with the pork roast?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic for a complete meal. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables you choose.
With its simple preparation and incredible flavor, slow cooker pork roast is a must-have recipe in any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, with the keto and low-carb variations, it’s a versatile option that can accommodate a variety of dietary preferences. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of tender, flavorful pork roast!