This Easy Slow Cooker Balsamic Brown Sugar Pork Roast is a total winner! The pork is tender and flavorful, with a perfect sweet and tangy glaze. It’s like a party in your mouth!
Set it up in the morning, and by dinner, you’ll have a meal that smells amazing. I love serving it with rice and veggies—makes for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Butt: This cut is perfect for slow cooking—it becomes incredibly tender. If you can’t find pork shoulder, a pork loin or even a whole chicken can work, although cooking times may vary.
Balsamic Vinegar: It adds a delicious tang. If balsamic isn’t on hand, red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar makes a good substitute.
Brown Sugar: This gives sweetness and depth. You can swap with honey or maple syrup if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or want to use less refined sugars.
Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can stand in. Use about 1 teaspoon powdered garlic for every clove called for.
How Do I Get the Perfect Shredded Pork?
Shredding pork is easier if you follow a couple of tips. After cooking, let the pork rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, use two forks and gently pull the meat apart. It should separate effortlessly!
- Make sure your pork is well-cooked—internal temperature should be at least 190°F for optimal tenderness.
- If you accidentally overcook, don’t worry! Adding a bit of the cooking liquid back to the shredded meat will help keep it moist.
Enjoy your easy and delicious meal, perfect for a weekend gathering or a cozy family dinner!
Easy Slow Cooker Balsamic Brown Sugar Pork Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder roast (or pork butt)
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pork roast takes about 15 minutes to prep and then requires either 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the slow cooker. The longer it cooks, the more tender it becomes, so feel free to set it up in the morning and enjoy a stress-free dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Pork (Optional):
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and move on to the next one!
2. Create the Balsamic Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture will give your pork a delicious glaze!
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Now, place the pork roast in the slow cooker. Pour the balsamic mixture over the pork, making sure it’s well coated. Then, add the chicken broth (or water) around the pork, which helps keep it moist during cooking.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The pork is done when it’s tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. It’s a good time to relax or take care of other things while the magic happens!
5. Resting and Shredding:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Make the Glaze (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker glaze, skim any excess fat from the liquid left in the slow cooker. Strain the liquid and then simmer it in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces and thickens into a glaze. Drizzle this over your shredded pork for extra flavor!
7. Serving:
Serve the pork hot with your favorite sides—think mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a medley of roasted vegetables. Enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal!
Dig in and enjoy your tender, flavorful balsamic brown sugar pork roast! It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
FAQs About Easy Slow Cooker Balsamic Brown Sugar Pork Roast
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder or butt is recommended for its tenderness, you can use pork loin or even a whole chicken. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary depending on the cut.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar to 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. You can also balance it by adding a bit more balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the pork and the balsamic mixture the night before. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them in the slow cooker in the morning!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.
