Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Pork Stew Recipe
Why will you love this Slow Cooker Pork Stew Recipe? First off, it’s incredibly easy to make! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
The aroma that fills your home is mouthwatering, and trust me, it’s hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s ready. The combination of tender pork and flavorful kielbasa creates a hearty meal that warms your soul.
Plus, it’s packed with nutritious veggies and beans, making it a wholesome choice for any family dinner. You’re going to want this recipe in your rotation!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Pork Stew
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Pork Stew. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day. The best part? You don’t have to be a culinary genius to whip this up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and heartiness.
So, let’s gather our supplies and get ready for some slow-cooked goodness.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pork Stew:
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 16 ounces kielbasa, cut into 1/2 inch slices
- 2 cups onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 14 ounces cannellini beans
- 14 ounces chicken broth
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes
Now, when it comes to choosing your ingredients, don’t be afraid to get a little creative! If you’re not a fan of pork shoulder, you could easily swap it for another cut of pork—maybe a tenderloin or even beef if you’re feeling adventurous.
As for the kielbasa, I once used an apricot apple sausage that was nothing short of a revelation. Seriously, it added a sweet and savory twist that had me dreaming about this stew for days.
And if you can’t find cannellini beans, any white bean will do just fine. The goal is to keep it hearty and satisfying.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Stew
Alright, let’s get this slow cooker party started. First things first, grab that 1 lb of pork shoulder and cut it into 1-inch cubes. No need to stress about making them perfect; just aim for roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Next up, you’ll want to slice your 16 ounces of kielbasa into 1/2 inch pieces. At this point, you might be wondering why we’re using two types of pork. Trust me, it’s all about layering flavors. The kielbasa adds a smoky goodness that complements the tender pork shoulder beautifully.
Now, it’s time to bring in the veggies. Chop up 2 cups of onions and mince 2 garlic cloves to get that aromatic base going. You should be getting a feel for the kitchen vibes by now—don’t you just love that smell?
Toss in 4 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces, and your 14 ounces of cannellini beans. Now, pour in 14 ounces of chicken broth for that lovely depth of flavor, followed by 6 ounces of tomato paste. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of dried thyme and 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper for a little kick. Give everything a good stir, making sure all those ingredients are well combined.
Once you’ve got everything in the slow cooker, set it to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or crank it up to high for 4 to 5 hours. Envision this: you’re going about your day, and the delicious aroma of pork stew is wafting through the house. It’s like a warm hug for your senses.
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, don’t forget to add the 14 ounces of diced tomatoes. This little step is essential for brightening the stew’s flavor and adding that fresh touch.
When it’s all done, you’ll have a bubbling pot of goodness that feels like a warm embrace. Just grab a bowl, scoop some out, and prepare to be amazed at how easy it was to create this little piece of comfort!
Slow Cooker Pork Stew Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basics of making slow cooker pork stew, it’s time to get creative with substitutions and variations.
You can swap pork shoulder for beef or chicken, depending on your preference. If you’re out of kielbasa, any smoked sausage works great.
For a veggie boost, add bell peppers or zucchini. I’ve even thrown in sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a twist.
Don’t have canned beans? Lentils can work too!
Feel free to experiment with herbs—rosemary or oregano can change the flavor profile entirely.
The possibilities are endless, so have fun making it your own!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Stew
A hearty bowl of slow cooker pork stew deserves equally satisfying sides to complement its rich flavors.
I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping; it soaks up the delicious broth perfectly. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the stew’s richness.
If I’m feeling indulgent, I might whip up some creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread, which pair wonderfully with the stew.
For a lighter option, sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts work great, bringing a touch of freshness to the meal.
Trust me, these sides elevate the whole dining experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you’ve got a delicious bowl of slow cooker pork stew in front of you, a few extra tips can make the experience even better.
First, don’t skip the herbs; they add depth. I love a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
For leftovers, store in an airtight container; it tastes even better the next day!
Finally, feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand.
Enjoy every hearty spoonful!