Hearty Midwestern Slow Cooker Pork Roast: A Flavorful Comfort Food Delight
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Hearty Midwestern Slow Cooker Pork Roast recipe. Bursting with savory flavors and tender, juicy pork, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or lazy Sunday suppers. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you sit back and relax, knowing that a hearty and satisfying meal is on its way. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use either a pork shoulder or pork loin for this recipe. Both cuts work well in the slow cooker and will result in tender, flavorful meat.
Q: Can I skip the onions and garlic if I’m not a fan? A: While onions and garlic add depth of flavor to the dish, you can omit them if you prefer. However, keep in mind that they do enhance the overall taste of the pork roast.
Q: Can I make this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes, you can make a keto-friendly version of this recipe by replacing the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. You can also omit the cornstarch for thickening the gravy.
Q: How long should I cook the pork roast in the slow cooker? A: Cook the pork roast on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the pork roast? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or any other vegetables you like to the slow cooker along with the pork roast for a complete one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3 to 4-pound) boneless pork roast (shoulder or loin)
- 2 onions, peeled and quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for gravy)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for gravy)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker
- Place the quartered onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Roast
- Season the pork roast with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and black pepper.
Step 4: Cook the Pork Roast
- Place the seasoned pork roast on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over the pork roast.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Step 6: Make the Gravy (Optional)
- If desired, remove the pork roast from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter.
- In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the juices in the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Serve the pork roast with the gravy drizzled on top.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or other vegetables to the slow cooker along with the pork roast for a complete meal.
- Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the pork roast. Rosemary, sage, or oregano would all work well in this recipe.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Low-Carb: Serve the pork roast with a side of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables instead of traditional carb-heavy sides like potatoes or rice.
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of the Midwest with this Hearty Slow Cooker Pork Roast recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, this pork roast is sure to become a family favorite. So fire up your slow cooker and get ready to savor the hearty goodness of this classic comfort food dish!
