Slow Cooker Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork is a tropical twist on a comfort food classic. This dish combines tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple, brown sugar, and soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for sandwiches, rice bowls, or tacos. It’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it recipe that brings a taste of the islands to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful and Tender: The pork becomes incredibly juicy and flavorful as it absorbs the Hawaiian-inspired sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on buns, over rice, or in tacos for a variety of meal choices.
• Great for Gatherings: Feeds a crowd, making it perfect for parties and potlucks.
• Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers can be frozen for future meals, saving time and effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• Pineapple juice
• Brown sugar
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, minced
• Ketchup
• Chicken broth
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Pineapple chunks (optional, for added texture)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and place it in the slow cooker.
2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, chicken broth, garlic, and ginger.
3. Cook: Pour the sauce over the pork in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Bring to a boil and cook until the sauce thickens.
6. Combine and Serve: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, pour the thickened sauce over it, and mix well. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
• Tropical Twist: Include pineapple chunks for added sweetness and texture.
• Asian Fusion: Incorporate hoisin sauce or sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Sandwich Style: Serve on Hawaiian rolls with coleslaw for a delicious sandwich.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, pork loin can be used, but it may be less tender and flavorful compared to pork shoulder.

Is it necessary to sear the pork before slow cooking?

Searing adds flavor but is not required for this recipe.

Can I cook this on high heat?

Yes, cook on high for 4-5 hours, but low and slow yields more tender results.

What can I serve with Hawaiian pulled pork?

Serve with rice, coleslaw, or on sandwich buns with pickles.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too sweet?

Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your taste, or balance with a splash of vinegar.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple juice and chunks work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, bell peppers or onions can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

Simmer the sauce uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a festive gathering, its sweet and savory taste brings a touch of the tropics to any meal. Enjoy the convenience of slow cooking and the delicious results that come with it.

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