Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)

Asian Caramel Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a true delight for any occasion. This Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork) recipe brings together tender, juicy pork shoulder and an irresistible sauce that balances savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Tender: The slow cooker transforms the pork into melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of coconut milk, soy sauce, and spices creates a rich and delicious sauce.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you can enjoy a gourmet meal with little effort.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking this delightful dish, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large cast iron skillet
• Medium mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking for maximum tenderness in the meat.
• Large cast iron skillet: Perfect for searing the pork evenly before slow cooking.
• Whisk: Helps mix sauces well to ensure all ingredients are blended smoothly.

Ingredients

Asian Caramel Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is crazy tender smothered in the most addicting savory, sweet, and spicy sauce infused with coconut milk, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, fish sauce, sriracha, ginger, and garlic. You will be licking your plate—and the slow cooker.

Ingredients:
– 4-5 lbs. pork shoulder/pork butt, trimmed of excess fat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seed oil
– 2 tablespoons ginger powder (sounds like a lot but it’s amazing)
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tsp EACH salt, onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
– 1/3 cup Japanese sweet rice wine/mirin (may substitute dry sherry)
– 1/4 cup Asian sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha/Asian hot chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water

How to Make Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly spray a 6 qt + slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all of the Wet Spice Rub ingredients.
2. Massage this rub evenly all over the pork.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil over high heat in a large cast iron skillet.
4. Using tongs or two forks, sear the pork on all sides until lightly browned.
5. Place seared pork in the prepared slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In another medium bowl, whisk together Slow Cooker Sauce ingredients (excluding Caramel Sauce). Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours or on HIGH for about 5 to 6 hours until the pork is fall-apart tender. Remove pork to a cutting board once done cooling enough to shred.

Step 5: Prepare Caramel Sauce

1. Remove all leftover sauce from the slow cooker to a measuring cup.
2. If there’s less than 2½ cups of liquid left, add enough water to equal that amount.
3. In a large skillet, combine brown sugar and water; boil over medium heat while whisking constantly for about one minute.
4. Slowly whisk in your reserved Slow Cooker Sauce; simmer over medium-high heat until thickened (approximately 7–10 minutes).

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Pour desired amount of Caramel Sauce over shredded pork and toss until evenly coated with a spatula. Serve with rice or veggies.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this amazing Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)

Serving Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork) offers a delightful experience for your taste buds. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings that enhance its rich flavors.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, it absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: A nutty option that adds a healthy twist to your meal.
• Fried Rice: Give your meal an extra crunch and flavor boost with some leftover fried rice.

As Tacos

• Pulled Pork Tacos: Serve the shredded pork in soft tortillas with fresh toppings like cilantro and lime for a fun twist.
• Cabbage Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large cabbage leaves as wraps filled with pork and veggies.

On a Salad

• Asian Slaw: Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and peanuts for a crunchy salad topped with pulled pork.
• Mixed Greens: Serve over fresh greens drizzled with sesame dressing for a light yet flavorful dish.

With Veggies

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds nutrition and crunch.
• Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor complements the sweet and savory notes of the pork.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)

Achieving the perfect Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork) is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder or pork butt for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Sear Before Slow Cooking: Searing the meat locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing the pork to cook on LOW for 8-10 hours ensures it becomes fall-apart tender.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, simmer it on the stove until thickened before serving.
• Add Fresh Herbs at Serving: Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro right before serving for added freshness.
• Experiment with Heat Levels: Adjust Sriracha in the sauce to match your preference for spice – go spicy or mild!

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork) enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that balances out the richness of the pork.
2. Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this sweet rice complements the savory flavors beautifully.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Crunchy pickles provide a tangy contrast that brightens each bite of pork.
4. Egg Noodles: Soft noodles can soak up all that delicious sauce – perfect for noodle lovers!
5. Mango Salsa: Fresh mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity, refreshing the palate between bites.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory caramel notes of the pork.
7. Sesame Green Beans: Stir-fried green beans tossed with sesame oil add crunch and flavor complexity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the perfect Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork). Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much fat: Trimming excess fat from the pork is crucial. Fat can make the dish greasy rather than tender and flavorful.
• Neglecting to sear: Skipping the searing step means missing out on added flavor. Sear the pork before cooking for a richer taste.
• Not measuring sauces: A precise measurement of sauces is essential. This balance guarantees the right flavor profile, so always measure accurately.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary by method. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches an internal temperature of 195°F for perfect tenderness.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the pork rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute. This step ensures that your meat remains moist when shredded.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork) in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)

• Place cooled pork in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label containers with date and contents.

Reheating Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place pork in a covered dish, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork):

How do I make Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork) spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of Sriracha or include spicy chili flakes in the sauce.

Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe?

Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal, you can also use pork loin or ribs, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I serve Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork)?

Serve it with rice, steamed vegetables, or in tacos topped with slaw for a delightful meal experience!

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce turns out too thick after cooking, simply whisk in a little water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Asian Pork (Caramelized Pork) is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or sauces based on personal preference. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!