Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Pork

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours

Ingredients:

  1. 1.5 lbs (about 680 grams) pork belly or pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
  2. 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), cut into chunks
  3. 1 medium onion, chopped into large pieces
  4. 1 cup (about 240 ml) baby carrots or 2 large carrots, sliced
  5. 1 can (20 oz or about 565 grams) pineapple chunks in juice (keep the juice)
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 3 tbsp (about 45 ml) ketchup
  8. 1/4 cup (about 60 ml) apple cider vinegar
  9. 1/4 cup (about 50 grams) brown sugar, packed
  10. 3 tbsp (about 45 ml) soy sauce
  11. 2 tbsp (about 30 grams) cornstarch
  12. Salt and pepper to taste
  13. Cooked rice, for serving
  14. Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pork: Lightly season the pork cubes with salt and pepper.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and the juice from the canned pineapple. Whisk until well combined.
  3. Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir until smooth, then add this to the sauce mixture and whisk together until combined.
  4. Layer in Slow Cooker: Place the pork cubes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread the onion, bell pepper, and carrots over the pork. Pour the sauce mixture over everything, ensuring the meat and veggies are coated.
  5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the pineapple chunks.
  6. Serve: Once cooked, adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the sweet and sour pork over cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes:

  • You can also add other vegetables like sliced zucchini or snap peas for variation.
  • If you like your sauce thicker, you can remove a cup of the sauce during the last 30 minutes, mix in another tablespoon of cornstarch to create a slurry, and then mix it back into the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on HIGH.

Enjoy your delicious slow cooker sweet and sour pork!