Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pork Loin – Comfort Food Meals

When you think of Hawaiian flavors, you might imagine a table spread adorned with colorful, fresh ingredients. Pairing your slow cooker Hawaiian pork loin with the right sides can elevate your meal. Imagine fluffy steamed rice or zesty cauliflower rice soaking up the flavorful sauce. 

A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch. Don’t forget some pickles for an additional zing, or perhaps a fruit salad for that tropical touch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a side of grilled pineapple might harmonize perfectly. Let’s dive into this delightful dish.

Slow cooker Hawaiian pork loin holds a special place in my heart. It combines the warm, comforting flavors of home-cooked meals with a zesty tropical flair. Over the years, I've experimented with this dish, always tweaking ingredients to strike that perfect balance. The beauty of slow cooking is that it allows flavors to meld beautifully while infusing tenderness into the meat. 

And honestly, there’s something magical about coming home to a house that smells like a Hawaiian paradise. So, get ready; we’re about to embark on a culinary journey that will have your taste buds dancing!

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What is Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pork Loin?

This dish features a pork loin that is slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing all the vibrant flavors of pineapple, bell peppers, and a savory sauce. It’s all about simplicity and pleasure, with the pork becoming fall-apart tender after hours of slow cooking. You can whip this up without much fuss; plug in your slow cooker and let it do all the hard work! Plus, the layers of sweetness, tang, and a slight kick will keep you returning for more.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Imagine the sweetness of fresh pineapple married with the savory flavor of pork. The sweetness is complemented by the umami of soy sauce, and a subtle tang from lime juice and Dijon mustard brings it all together. If you like a bit of spice, the chili flakes add just a whisper of heat. 

Add in the depth from garlic and the slight smokiness from paprika, and you have a vibrant dish that's a whirlwind of flavor. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your palate.

What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pork Loin?

What sets this recipe apart is its unique blend of ingredients. While many recipes rely heavily on jarred sauces, this one balances bold flavors with simple, fresh components. I’ve incorporated applesauce, which makes the sauce slightly fruity and reduces the need for excessive sugar.

 I also use both ketchup and barbecue sauce, creating a rich, tangy flavor without overpowering the pork. And, by including smoked paprika, this dish gains a depth that many similar recipes miss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here's a detailed list of what you need to make this delightful dish:

Pork Loin and Vegetables

• 1.25 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed (I used Hatfield brand)
  
• 2 colorful bell peppers, sliced
  
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
  
• 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  
• 20 oz canned pineapple tidbits, drained (one 20 oz can)
  
• 1 tsp garlic granules
  
• 1 tsp onion granules
  
• 1 tsp kosher salt
  
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
  
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for subtle heat)
  

Sauce

• 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
  
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (I used Stubbs Original)
  
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds a mild tang and depth)
  
• 1.5 tbsp cornstarch
  
• 1.5 tbsp water
  

For Serving

• Slider buns (I used King's Hawaiian)
  
• Slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
  
• Lettuce and pickles for topping
  
• Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
  
• Chopped chives for garnish
  

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First off, give your pork tenderloin a good rinse. Trim off any excess fat. Once that's done, slice your bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Tidy up your workspace; a clean counter always makes cooking more enjoyable.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Now, let's whip up that sauce! In a medium bowl, combine the tomato ketchup, unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, barbecue sauce, lime juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until everything is well incorporated. This sauce will bring the dish to life!

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place the trimmed pork tenderloin at the bottom of your slow cooker. Scatter the sliced bell peppers and onions over the pork. Add the minced garlic and pineapple tidbits. Don’t forget the spices! Sprinkle garlic granules, onion granules, kosher salt, smoked paprika, ground ginger, and chili flakes on top. Finally, pour the prepared sauce evenly over the ingredients. The fragrance will delight your senses at this stage!

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, you could go for the high setting for about 3 to 4 hours. Trust the slow process; this is what makes the pork tender and the flavors develop fully.

Step 5: Prepare the Sliders

Once your pork is ready, remove it from the slow cooker. Shred it using two forks. The meat should fall apart with little effort. If needed, you can thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with water and stirring it into the slow cooker for a few minutes on high.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Now for the fun part! Assemble your sliders: take a soft King’s Hawaiian bun, pile it high with the shredded pork, sprinkle some cheese over it, and add a bit of lettuce and pickles on top. Serve it with steamed rice or cauliflower rice on the side.

Tips on Making Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pork Loin

1. Use Fresh Pineapple: If you can, consider using fresh pineapple instead of canned. It will lend a more vibrant flavor to your dish.

2. Don’t Skip the Marinade: For extra flavor, marinate your pork tenderloin in the sauce for at least one hour, or overnight if possible.

3. Adjust the Heat: If you love spice, feel free to add more chili flakes or even some fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.

4. Thicken the Sauce: For a richer sauce, use a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Leftovers Are Gold: The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better. Don’t hesitate to enjoy this dish the day after!

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 350
  
• Protein: 30g
  
• Carbohydrates: 34g
  
• Fat: 10g
  
• Fiber: 2g
  
• Sugars: 15g
  

This should give you a nice balance of proteins and carbs, not to mention the fresh vegetables included.

How Can I Store This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pork Loin?

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the cooled pork in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to three months.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Sometimes, life happens, and you may not have every ingredient on hand. Here are some substitutes you can consider:

Pork Tenderloin: Chicken breast or thighs work well in place of pork. Adjust cooking time based on the meat you choose.

Bell Peppers: If you’re out of fresh bell peppers, frozen mixed vegetables can serve as a great alternative. Toss them in directly with the sauce.

Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use coconut aminos. It provides a savory flavor while keeping the dish gluten-free.

Barbecue Sauce: If you don’t have BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce can add a different but delightful flavor profile.

Conclusion

There you have it! Slow cooker Hawaiian pork loin is not only delicious but also a versatile dish that suits various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a family meal, this recipe will surely impress. The beauty is in its simplicity; with just a few quality ingredients and your slow cooker, you can create a dish that brings a burst of tropical flavor to your dining table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start this culinary adventure. Your taste buds will thank you!

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