Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
When the weather turns chilly and you’re looking for a meal that warms both the heart and the belly, nothing quite hits the spot like a savory pork shoulder stew. This Pork Shoulder Crock Pot Recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of tender pork simmering away in your kitchen, promising a delightful meal with minimal effort on your part. Using a slow cooker not only allows for hands-free cooking but also ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in an incredibly rich and satisfying dish. It’s a recipe that not only nourishes but also brings everyone together around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your crock pot and let it do all the work.
- Flavorful & Tender: Pork shoulder is known for its rich flavor and tenderness, especially when slow-cooked.
- Family-Friendly: This stew is a hit with both adults and kids, making it a perfect family meal.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or as a filling in tacos or sandwiches.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making great leftovers for lunch.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables that are in season for a fresh twist on the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Stew
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Sear the Meat: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork chunks until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew.
- Transfer to Crock Pot: Place the seared pork in your crock pot along with the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato paste. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Season: Add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the pork right in the crock pot and stir to combine with the sauce before serving.
Serving Suggestions
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm bowl of pork shoulder stew after a long day. Here are some delightful serving ideas:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping—perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Over Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting base for this stew, allowing the rich flavors to shine.
- In Tacos: For a fun twist, serve the shredded pork in corn tortillas topped with fresh cilantro and lime.
- With Rice: A bowl of steamed rice can soak up the delicious sauce, making for a hearty meal.
Tips for Success
To ensure your pork shoulder stew turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips:
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the pork into similar-sized chunks for even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the meat before adding it to the crock pot enhances the flavor significantly.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality broth will elevate the taste of your stew.
- Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Pork Shoulder Crock Pot Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. The combination of tender pork, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in with family, this stew is a fantastic choice. So, gather your ingredients, set your crock pot, and get ready to savor every spoonful of this comforting delight! Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next dinner inspiration!
