Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder (For Tacos or Sliders)

My Easy Crockpot Asian Pulled Pork: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like an uphill battle. Weeknights are often a blur of homework, extracurricular activities, and the ever-present struggle to get dinner on the table before everyone collapses from hunger. That's why I'm obsessed with slow cooker recipes – they're my secret weapon for effortless, flavorful meals that don't require hours of slaving over a hot stove.

This Asian-inspired pulled pork is a perfect example. It's incredibly simple, requiring minimal prep time, and the slow cooker does all the hard work. The result? Tender, juicy pork that practically melts in your mouth, infused with the vibrant flavors of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and a hint of spice. It’s so versatile, too! We love it piled high on tacos, tucked into slider buns, or even served over rice with a side of steamed vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its simplicity but also in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and sides to suit your tastes. One night, we might enjoy it with quick-pickled vegetables and a sriracha aioli for a spicy kick. Another night, we might opt for a fresh slaw and a drizzle of sesame oil for a lighter touch. The possibilities are endless!

Beyond the Recipe: Embracing the Slow Cooker Lifestyle

The slow cooker has become an indispensable tool in my kitchen. It's more than just a convenient appliance; it’s a time-saver, a stress reliever, and a key ingredient in my recipe for a balanced life. I find that the slow cooker allows me to be more present with my family during busy weeknights, instead of being stuck in the kitchen. It helps me create healthy and delicious meals without sacrificing precious time.

But the benefits extend beyond just weeknights. On weekends, I love using my slow cooker to prepare larger batches of food for meal prepping. This means I can have healthy and delicious lunches ready to go for the entire week. It makes my life so much easier and helps me stay organized.

Tips for Slow Cooker Success

Here are a few tips I've learned over the years that can help you master the art of slow cooker cooking:

• Don't overfill the slow cooker: Leave some space at the top to allow for even cooking and prevent spills.
• Use a good quality slow cooker: A reliable slow cooker will make a significant difference in the quality of your meals.
• Don't lift the lid too often: This will release heat and steam, potentially extending the cooking time.
• Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker: Some slow cookers cook faster or slower than others. Experiment to find the perfect cooking time for your appliance.

This Asian-inspired pulled pork recipe is just the beginning of your slow cooker journey. Once you start experimenting with different flavors and combinations, you'll discover a whole new world of delicious and effortless meals. So ditch the stress of weeknight cooking and embrace the convenience and flavor of the slow cooker – you won't regret it!

This recipe, with its simple ingredients and foolproof method, is a testament to the power of slow cooking. It's a meal that embodies both flavor and convenience, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the joy of a delicious, effortless meal that the whole family will love. The aroma alone will have everyone excited for dinner!

Step-by-step

• In a small sauce pan add the following items: hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, ½ cup of water, sesame oil, mirin, shaoxing rice wine, lemongrass fresh, ginger, garlic, and the Chinese five spice powder.
• Whisk together. Reserve 1/4 cup for basting and set the pan with the rest of the sauce on the stove over low hit to thicken. About 30 min, whisking occasionally to prevent burning.
• Remove from heat and set aside to cool completely.
• Place onion chunks in bottom of crock pot and set as low.
• Salt and pepper the pork on both sides and place on top of the onions.
• Baste top and sides of pork with the reserved sauce.
• Add the lid and cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-5 hours on high. You will know it's done when it is falling apart. YUM!
• Add the cooled Korean inspired BBQ sauce reduction to a magic bullet or blender and blend until smooth. Set aside. Will keep in fridge for 2 weeks.
• I use this for Asian pork tacos or pulled pork sliders. Serve either one topped with shredded green and purple cabbage, thinly slices quick-pickled radishes and cucumbers, green onion, cilantro and basil. Dress with a drizzle of spicy sriracha aioli and a drizzle of the Korean inspired BBQ sauce reduction.