Slow Cooker Pineapple Chipotle Pulled Pork
Get ready to fall in love with this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Pineapple Chipotle Pulled Pork! This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, creating a flavor explosion that’s perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or rice bowls. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Originating from a fusion of tropical and Mexican flavors, this pulled pork recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an easy yet impressive dish for any occasion. The tender, juicy pork paired with the tangy, spicy sauce is a match made in culinary heaven.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Simply toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it. You’ll come home to a house filled with irresistible aromas and a meal ready to serve.
2. Bold, Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet pineapple, smoky chipotle, and savory pork creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both exciting and satisfying. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy.
3. Versatile and Customizable: This pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it in tacos, sandwiches, or over rice. You can also adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more or less chipotle peppers.
What’s In Slow Cooker Pineapple Chipotle Pulled Pork?
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- Pork Shoulder: The star of the dish, pork shoulder becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
- Pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and acidity, which helps tenderize the pork.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: Provides smoky heat and depth of flavor.
- Onion and Garlic: Form the aromatic base of the dish.
- Spices: A blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano enhances the flavor profile.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick and balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances the caramelization and adds a touch of sweetness.
How To Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Chipotle Pulled Pork
This recipe is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious pulled pork:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the pineapple.
- Remove the pork shoulder from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Pork
- In a small bowl, mix the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Place the chopped onion and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the seasoned pork shoulder on top.
- Pour in the diced pineapple, chipotle peppers, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides or toppings.
Sides for Slow Cooker Pineapple Chipotle Pulled Pork
Pair your pulled pork with these delicious sides:
- Warm Tortillas: Perfect for making tacos or burritos.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty and refreshing side that complements the smoky flavors.
- Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, creamy contrast to the tender pork.
- Grilled Pineapple Slices: Enhances the tropical flavors of the dish.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can use pork loin or pork tenderloin, but keep in mind that these cuts are leaner and may not be as tender as pork shoulder.
How Spicy Is This Recipe?
The spice level depends on the amount of chipotle peppers you use. Start with 1-2 peppers and adjust to your preference.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Other Recipes To Try
- Mango Habanero Chicken Wings: Sweet and spicy wings with a tropical twist.
- Jerk-Spiced Pulled Pork: A Caribbean-inspired pulled pork with bold, spicy flavors.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs: Sweet and savory meatballs perfect for appetizers or main dishes.
- Chipotle Lime Shrimp Tacos: A quick and flavorful seafood option.
- Slow Cooker Cochinita Pibil: Quick to prepare Mexican pork for tacos.
If you like the look of this, try our 14 Must-Try Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipes
Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Chipotle Pulled Pork
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 lbs 1.4 kg pork shoulder
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 cups fresh pineapple diced
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce chopped
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Season the Pork: In a small bowl, mix cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Place chopped onion and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork shoulder on top. Pour in pineapple, chipotle peppers, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred and Serve: Remove the pork, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker to mix with the sauce. Serve hot.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to control the heat.
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Substitutions: Use canned pineapple if fresh isn’t available.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve in tacos, sandwiches, or over rice.
Nutrition
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Pineapple Chipotle Pulled Pork! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!