Imagine a dish so tender it falls apart with the gentlest touch, infused with a tantalizing blend of sweet honey, zesty lime, and warming ginger that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This Slow Cooker Honey Lime Ginger Pork is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that turns an ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary dining experience. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lb pork shoulder
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather all the ingredients: 2 lb pork shoulder, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp red pepper flakes, green onions for garnish, and sesame seeds for garnish.
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder to prevent the dish from becoming overly greasy. Cut the pork into large chunks, approximately 2-3 inches in size, to allow for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk the mixture together until well combined, creating a flavorful marinade.
- Place the pork shoulder chunks into the slow cooker. Pour the honey-lime-ginger marinade over the pork, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Use a spatula or spoon to turn the pork in the marinade if necessary.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This low and slow cooking method will allow the pork to become tender and absorb all the flavors from the marinade.
- After 6 hours of cooking, check the pork for doneness. It should be fork-tender and easily shredded. If it is not yet tender, you may continue cooking for an additional hour.
- Once the pork is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, mixing it back into the remaining sauce to ensure it is well coated. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to absorb more flavor.
- To serve, scoop the honey lime ginger pork onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles, so consider preparing a side of your choice to complement the meal.
Tips
- Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling, which ensures tender, juicy meat.
- Trim fat strategically: Remove excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy, but leave some for flavor and moisture.
- Marinate for maximum flavor: If time allows, mix the marinade and coat the pork chunks the night before cooking to enhance flavor penetration.
- Don't rush the cooking: The 6-hour low and slow method is crucial for breaking down tough muscle fibers and creating melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Check liquid levels: If the sauce seems too dry during cooking, add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Shredding technique: Use two forks to pull the meat apart, creating beautiful, tender strands that soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish generously: Fresh green onions and sesame seeds aren't just for looks—they add fresh flavor and delightful texture.
- Serving suggestions: Pair with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or in tacos for versatile meal options.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 125mg
