Slow Cooker Curried Pineapple Pork Chops
Try this Slow Cooker Curried Pineapple Pork Chops recipe or contribute your own.
Try this Slow Cooker Curried Pineapple Pork Chops recipe or contribute your own.
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup) (i used fres
- 2 teaspoons curry powder (or less if you prefer)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger (i used fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (less if you're not crazy about
- 6 (7-ish ounce) boneless pork loin chops trimmed of visible fat
- 2 scallions, sliced thin
- Carbohydrate 25.031759047619 g
- Cholesterol 75.84 mg
- Fat 6.88464983333333 g
- Fiber 1.62427828971545 g
- Protein 34.4222011666667 g
- Saturated Fat 2.37730336666667 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (275g)
- Sodium 449.647866666667 mg
- Sugar 23.4074807579036 g
- Trans Fat 0.673280866666667 g
- Calories 294 calories
Step-by-step
- Stir pineapple with juice, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, curry powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes into slow cooker.
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper and nestle into slow cooker.
- Cover and cook until pork is tender, 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 5 hours on high. (Adjust time according to how your personal slow cooker heats. Mine runs hot, so I always reduce the time, especially on high).
- Remove the chops to a serving platter, cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Let liquid in slow cooker sit for 5 minutes, and then skim fat off the surface using a large spoon.
- Whisk water and cornstarch together in small bowl.
- Stir into slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for 5-10 minutes, or until sauce is thick. You can also remove the liquid to a small saucepan and add the cornstarch mixture, but why get another pan dirty?!
- Stir in scallions, season with salt and pepper to taste (although you probably won't need to).
- Serve chops with brown rice and sauce equally divided among the plates.
Slow Cooker Curried Pineapple Pork Chops: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a monumental task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending to-do list, even thinking about standing over a hot stove for an hour feels overwhelming. That's where my trusty slow cooker comes in! It's my secret weapon for creating flavorful, satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This Slow Cooker Curried Pineapple Pork Chops recipe is a perfect example of how simple and delicious weeknight meals can be.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and the preparation takes mere minutes. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tend to other things. The result? Tender, juicy pork chops infused with the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple, curry, and a hint of spice. The sauce is rich and decadent, perfect for spooning over fluffy brown rice. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I know it will quickly become a favorite in yours too.
Why this recipe works:
- Convenience: The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with minimal hands-on time.
- Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple, savory curry, and tender pork chops is simply irresistible.
- Healthier Option: Compared to pan-frying, slow cooking results in leaner, healthier pork chops.
- Adaptability: Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers are a treat: This recipe is just as delicious the next day! Perfect for lunch!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe calls for pantry staples and fresh ingredients that are easy to find. I often use fresh pineapple, but canned works great in a pinch! Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices to create your unique flavor profile. One time I even added a splash of coconut milk for an extra layer of creaminess.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: Both work wonderfully! Fresh pineapple adds a brighter flavor and a slightly more vibrant texture, while canned pineapple provides ultimate convenience.
- Adjusting Spice: This recipe can be easily customized to your spice preference. If you're not a fan of heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. Similarly, you can use less curry powder for a milder flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked pork chops can be dry and tough. Follow the cooking time guidelines, and always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Thicken the Sauce: The cornstarch slurry helps to create a rich, thick sauce. If the sauce is too thin, simply add a bit more cornstarch.
- Resting Time Matters: Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking helps them retain their juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious pork chops over fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or even mashed sweet potatoes. The flavorful sauce is a perfect complement to any of these sides. I like to garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and visual appeal. Consider a side salad with a light vinaigrette for a complete and balanced meal.
This recipe is a true testament to the power of slow cooking. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or even a relaxed weekend dinner. So next time you're short on time but craving a delicious and satisfying meal, give this Slow Cooker Curried Pineapple Pork Chops recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
