Slow Cooker Pineapple Jalapeño Pulled Pork: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistible
Get ready to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Pineapple Jalapeño Pulled Pork! This dish is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with tender pork shoulder slow-cooked to perfection in a tangy pineapple and jalapeño sauce. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping, or just craving something delicious, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into the flavors and simplicity of this mouthwatering dish!
Why This Recipe Works
1. Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work for you! Simply toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it. By the time you’re ready to eat, the pork will be fall-apart tender and packed with flavor.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the heat of jalapeños, creating a harmonious blend that’s both refreshing and bold. It’s a flavor combination you’ll want to make again and again.
3. Versatile and Customizable: Serve this pulled pork in tacos, sandwiches, rice bowls, or even on its own. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños to suit your taste.
What’s In Slow Cooker Pineapple Jalapeño Pulled Pork?
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- Pork Shoulder: The star of the dish, pork shoulder becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and acidity, which helps tenderize the pork.
- Jalapeños: Brings the heat and a fresh, spicy kick.
- Onion and Garlic: Provide a savory base for the sauce.
- Soy Sauce and Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds depth and tanginess to the sauce.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the acidity and heat with a touch of sweetness.
- Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder enhance the flavor profile.
How To Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Jalapeño 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 slice the jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat).
- Cut the pineapple into chunks (fresh or canned both work).
Step 2: Season the Pork
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
- Rub the pork with a mixture of cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, jalapeños, and pineapple around the pork.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork.
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 favorite sides or toppings.
Sides for Slow Cooker Pineapple Jalapeño Pulled Pork
Pair this flavorful pulled pork with these delicious sides:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy pork.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread is the perfect accompaniment.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty rice dish that complements the flavors of the pork.
- Grilled Pineapple Slices: Enhance the pineapple flavor with a caramelized touch.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, pork butt or pork loin can also work, but pork shoulder is ideal for its fat content, which keeps the meat moist during slow cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Make This Spicier?
Absolutely! Add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Other Recipes To Try
- Mango Habanero Chicken Wings: Sweet and spicy wings with a tropical twist.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs: A fun and flavorful appetizer or main dish.
- Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Burgers: A cheesy, spicy take on classic burgers.
- Coconut Lime Shrimp Tacos: A refreshing and zesty seafood option.
- Slow Cooker Mole Chili: A Rich and Flavorful Comfort Dish
If you like the look of this, try our 14 Must-Try Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipes
Slow Cooker Pineapple Jalapeño Pulled Pork
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 lbs 1.4 kg pork shoulder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 large onion chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2-3 jalapeños sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks or 1 can, drained
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Season the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Place the pork in the slow cooker. Add onion, garlic, jalapeños, and pineapple around it.
- Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour over the pork.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is tender.
- Shred and Serve: Shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve hot.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat.
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Freezing: Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Pineapple Options: Fresh or canned pineapple both work well.
- Serving Ideas: Great for tacos, sandwiches, or rice bowls.
Nutrition
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Pineapple Jalapeño Pulled Pork! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
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