Are you tired of dry, tough roasts that leave your family disappointed? Get ready to transform your dinner game with the most incredibly tender and flavorful Crock Pot Pork Roast that practically falls apart with a fork! This foolproof recipe combines simple ingredients with a genius slow-cooking technique that guarantees a mouth-watering meal every single time. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend culinary enthusiast, this recipe will become your new go-to for impressive, stress-free dinners that will have everyone asking for your secret.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork roast
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) for seasoning
Instructions
- Remove pork roast from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and seasoning adherence.
- Season the entire roast generously with salt, pepper, and finely chopped fresh herbs, massaging the seasonings into the meat.
- Prepare the slow cooker by lightly spraying the interior with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place quartered onions at the bottom of the crock pot to create a flavorful base and prevent the meat from sitting directly on the bottom.
- Spread minced garlic evenly over and around the pork roast to infuse aromatic flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Carefully place the seasoned pork roast on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
- Pour apple cider around the sides of the roast, ensuring it doesn't wash away the seasonings from the meat.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat for 8 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and develop rich flavors.
- Do not lift the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
- After 8 hours, check the internal temperature of the roast, which should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: While resting, you can reduce the cooking liquid on the stovetop to create a delicious gravy.
- Slice the roast against the grain and serve with the cooked onions and pan juices.
Tips
- • Temperature Matters: Always let your pork roast sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution. • Moisture is Key: Pat the meat dry before seasoning to help create a beautiful, flavorful crust and prevent steaming. • Seasoning Technique: Don't be shy with herbs and seasonings - massage them directly into the meat for maximum flavor penetration. • Liquid Love: Apple cider isn't just a liquid - it's a flavor enhancer that will tenderize and add depth to your roast. • Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to peek! Keeping the lid closed maintains consistent temperature and moisture. • Rest is Best: Always let your roast rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is incredibly juicy. • Bonus Tip: Save those delicious pan juices to make a quick gravy or drizzle over your sliced meat for extra flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 130mg
