Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin

Bring the island flavors to the table with this Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin recipe. It’s a delightful dish that combines juicy pork loin with sweet pineapple and savory spices. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the rich aromas of tropical cuisine wafting through your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can simply set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the hard work.
• Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of pineapple and spices infuses the pork loin with mouthwatering flavors that will impress everyone at the table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside grilled vegetables to suit any occasion.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe yields enough servings to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, making it perfect for busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Sieve
• Medium saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe; it allows for low-and-slow cooking that makes the pork tender and flavorful.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for searing the pork before slow cooking, which enhances its taste and texture.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining spices without creating a mess in your kitchen.
• Sieve: Helps strain liquid from the slow cooker to create a smooth sauce.

Ingredients

Bring the island flavors to the table with this simple, slow cooker Hawaiian Pork loin made with pantry staples and finished with an easy-to-make sauce.

Main Ingredients

• 3-4 pound boneless pork loin
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 20 ounces canned pineapple chunks in 100% juice
• 1/2 cup light soy sauce
• 1/2 large sweet onion (diced, about ⅔ cup)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cold water

How to Make Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Combine the salt, paprika, onion powder, and ginger in a mixing bowl.
3. Pat your pork loin dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork loin.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Loin

1. Place the seasoned pork in the hot skillet.
2. Sear until browned on each side; start with the fat side down.
3. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until nicely browned.

Step 3: Mix Sauce Ingredients

1. While searing, dice your onion.
2. Combine soy sauce with juice from pineapple chunks in a bowl; you should have about ¾ cups of juice.

Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker

1. Place half of the pineapple chunks at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Add seared pork loin on top with fat side up.
3. Layer remaining pineapple chunks and diced onion over the pork.
4. Pour soy sauce/pineapple juice mixture over everything.

Step 5: Cook

1. Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 5 hours.
2. Check if pork shreds easily using a fork when done.

Step 6: Make Sauce

1. Strain liquid from slow cooker through a sieve into a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Bring strained liquid to a simmer.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry.
2. Slowly whisk slurry into simmering sauce while stirring gently until thickened.

Step 8: Serve

Serve shredded pork topped with thickened sauce and reserved pineapple chunks for added flavor!

If you’ve tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was!

How to Serve Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin

Serving Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin is a delightful experience that brings the vibrant flavors of the islands right to your table. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the pork over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal that soaks up the savory sauce.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a colorful, nutritious side that complements the pork’s richness.

In Tacos

• Shred the pork and serve it in soft tortillas with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fun twist.

As a Sandwich

• Use crusty bread or buns to make hearty sandwiches filled with shredded pork and topped with coleslaw.

With Tropical Fruit Salsa

• Top servings with a fresh mango or pineapple salsa to enhance the tropical flavors of the dish.

On a Platter

• Arrange the pork slices on a large platter with additional pineapple chunks and onion for an impressive presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin

To ensure your Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose Quality Meat: Selecting a good-quality boneless pork loin will ensure tenderness and flavor.
• Sear Properly: Searing the pork before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and helps retain moisture.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking on low for 5 hours is ideal; avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and quality soy sauce enhance the overall taste of your dish.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the pork to rest after cooking makes it easier to shred and keeps it juicy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coconut Rice: A sweet, creamy rice that perfectly complements the savory flavors of the pork.
2. Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, coleslaw adds freshness and balance against rich meat.
3. Grilled Pineapple: Charred pineapple slices enhance sweetness and bring out tropical notes.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory pork sauce.
5. Fried Plantains: These provide a crispy, sweet contrast that you will love alongside your dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light salad loaded with vegetables offers great texture and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Not Searing the Pork: Failing to sear the pork loin can result in a lack of flavor and texture. Always brown the meat before slow cooking to enhance its taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Overcooking the pork can lead to dry meat. Stick to the recommended cooking time for perfect tenderness.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap soy sauce or canned pineapple may affect the overall flavor. Opt for quality ingredients for best results.
• Skipping the Thickening Step: Not making a cornstarch slurry will leave your sauce thin and watery. Always thicken your sauce for better consistency.
• Forgetting About Leftovers: If you don’t store leftovers properly, they can spoil quickly. Make sure to refrigerate or freeze any extra portions.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the pork to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• It’s best to portion out servings before freezing for easy reheating.

Reheating Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pork in a covered dish with a splash of water and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat sliced pork in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of sauce until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin?

Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin is a flavorful dish made with pork loin, pineapple chunks, and soy sauce, cooked low and slow for tender results.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes, you can substitute other cuts like pork shoulder or tenderloin, but cooking times may vary.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin?

This dish pairs well with rice, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Slow Cook Pork Loin is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients or side dishes based on what you have at home. Try this recipe today and enjoy the tropical flavors!