Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue Recipe
When you plunge into this Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The tender, juicy pork practically melts in your mouth, and the rich, tangy sauce satisfies my cravings like nothing else.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing me to set it and forget it while I tackle other tasks. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings; everyone loves piling it onto a bun for a hearty meal.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I’m left with a delicious dish that makes weeknight dinners feel special. Trust me, you’ll adore it!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue
When it comes to making Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue, the ingredients are simple yet essential for crafting that mouthwatering flavor we all crave. You won’t need to hunt down fancy items at a specialty store; most of these should be hanging out in your pantry or local grocery store.
Did I mention how easy it’s to throw everything together? Just chop a few veggies, measure out some sauces, and you’re set. Trust me, once you have these ingredients ready, your kitchen will smell divine, and your taste buds will thank you later.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 1/2 lbs lean cubed pork
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 6 hamburger buns
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more. You might be wondering about the beef stew meat and why we’re mixing it with pork. Well, it’s all about the flavor and texture. The beef adds a nice depth of taste, while the pork brings that juicy tenderness we love in barbecue.
If you’re not a fan of one of these meats, feel free to swap it out or use all pork if that’s your jam. Also, the brown sugar and vinegar create that perfect sweet and tangy balance, which is what barbecue is all about.
And don’t skip on the Worcestershire sauce; it’s the secret ingredient that ties everything together. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get this barbecue party started!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue
Now that we’ve all those delicious ingredients lined up, it’s time to immerse ourselves in the heart of the matter: how to make Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue. This part is where the magic happens, and trust me, you’re going to love how easy it is.
First, grab your trusty 5-quart electric slow cooker. If you don’t have one, well, let’s just say you’re missing out on a kitchen superhero. Seriously, it’s like having a personal chef that never complains about being overworked.
Start by tossing in 1 1/2 lbs of beef stew meat and 1 1/2 lbs of lean cubed pork. That combo is going to give your barbecue that fantastic depth of flavor. Next, add in a chopped green bell pepper and a small chopped onion. The aroma is already starting to fill the air, isn’t it?
Now, let’s get saucy. Open up that 6-ounce can of tomato paste and dump it in there, followed by 1/2 cup of firmly packed light brown sugar (because who doesn’t love a little sweetness?), 1/4 cup of white vinegar for that tangy kick, and a tablespoon of chili powder to spice things up.
Don’t forget to sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, and 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce. That last one is like the secret handshake of BBQ sauces—don’t skip it.
Once all your ingredients are in the slow cooker, give everything a good stir to combine. Then, cover it up and let it work its magic on high for 7 hours. I know, waiting can feel like an eternity, but use this time to daydream about how great dinner will be.
When the time’s up, it’s time to reveal your inner barbecue master. Grab a spoon and start shredding that meat right against the sides of the slow cooker. It’s like a stress relief session in there, and let’s be honest—who doesn’t need a little meat-mashing therapy now and then?
Once it’s all shredded, serve it on those 6 hamburger buns, and get ready for a flavor explosion. Enjoy your creation, and pat yourself on the back for a job well done. You’ve earned it!
Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
For a twist, try using chicken or beef in place of pork. I love adding a smoky flavor by incorporating chipotle peppers or smoked paprika.
If you prefer a tangier kick, substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar. You can also switch up the sweetness by using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Don’t forget to experiment with different spices, like cumin or smoked paprika, to create a barbecue that suits your taste buds perfectly!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue
After experimenting with substitutions and variations, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside your Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue.
I love pairing it with coleslaw for that crunchy contrast. Baked beans are another favorite; their sweetness complements the barbecue perfectly. If you want something lighter, a fresh garden salad brings a nice balance.
For sides, consider cornbread or potato salad; they’re hearty and satisfying. Don’t forget the pickles for a tangy twist!
Finally, serving it on a toasted bun elevates the whole experience. Enjoy mixing and matching these options to create the perfect meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While cooking your Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to guarantee the best results.
First, use lean pork to avoid excessive grease; nobody wants a greasy barbecue. I recommend letting the meat marinate overnight for richer flavor.
If you like a bit of a kick, add more chili powder or some hot sauce. After shredding the meat, let it sit in the sauce for about 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Finally, don’t forget to serve it with pickles or coleslaw on the side for that perfect balance. Enjoy your meal!