Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork Recipe

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When I think of a comforting dish like slow cooker cranberry pork, a few side dishes come to mind that can take this meal to the next level. Here are some ideas that will make your dining experience even more delightful:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes add a rich texture that complements the tartness of the pork beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Root veggies like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, roasted until caramelized, provide a great contrast in flavor and texture.
Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds bring a crunch and freshness that balances the dish.
Cranberry Sauce: It might seem redundant, but a dollop of homemade cranberry sauce adds a fresh burst of flavor that enhances the pork’s inherent sweetness.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.

These pairings set the stage for a meal that is not just satisfying but also enjoyable and memorable.

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If you’re seeking an easy yet flavorful dish that can impress at any gathering or make a weeknight dinner special, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe. Slow cooker cranberry pork has quickly become a favorite in my household.

Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day, greeted by the inviting aroma of tender pork mingled with the sweet-tart fragrance of cranberry. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug. My journey to perfect this recipe was purely personal. I wanted to create something that was not just delicious but healthy, and compatible with the busy pace of modern life.

Slow cooking allows for deep flavor development while being so simple to execute. You just set it and forget it for several hours, only to return to a feast that seems almost magical. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to turn humble ingredients into a delightful meal.

What is Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork?

At its core, slow cooker cranberry pork is a dish featuring pork loin simmered in a rich sauce made from cranberry, honey, and a hint of apple cider vinegar. The process of slow cooking allows the meat to become incredibly tender while soaking in all those juicy flavors. The combination of sweet and savory elements makes for a satisfying plate.

Using a slow cooker means that you can free up your time for other chores or simply relax. I find this recipe particularly appealing because it strikes a balance between being fuss-free and utterly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork

This dish is not just about convenience; it’s about the flavor. The slow cooker transforms lean pork loin into a tender masterpiece. The cranberry sauce adds a burst of tanginess and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pork.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. By incorporating healthful elements like fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of cinnamon, I’ve added depth to the dish, ensuring that every bite is exciting.

One standout aspect of this recipe is its versatility. It can easily fit into a variety of diets, whether you’re watching your carbs or just want something hearty without the fuss. Plus, leftovers can be transformed into sandwiches or tacos the next day, making it a dish that keeps on giving.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork

Before you begin, let’s gather these ingredients:

2 lbs lean pork loin roast: Look for a well-trimmed cut for maximum flavor.
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: A splash of good quality olive oil adds richness.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for flavor enhancement.
1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken stock: Adds moisture without being too salty.
1 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce: This can be canned or homemade. I recommend Trader Joe’s for convenience.
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy kick.
1 tbsp raw honey: For that perfect touch of sweetness.
1 tbsp cornstarch: Used for thickening the sauce.
2 garlic cloves, finely minced: Garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic undertones.
1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped: The freshness from rosemary is key.
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: This warm spice provides a unique flavor twist.

With these simple ingredients, you’re about to create something spectacular!

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Start with a clean working surface. Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. This step will ensure a beautiful sear later on. Season the pork generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a nice brown crust forms. You’re looking for a beautiful golden color, which will add to the depth of flavor in the final dish. Once done, transfer the pork to your slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Next, stir in the cranberry sauce, chicken stock, apple cider vinegar, raw honey, and ground cinnamon. Make sure to scrape up any delicious bits stuck at the bottom; they add flavor to your sauce.

Step 4: Add It to the Slow Cooker

Pour the sauce over the seared pork in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary over everything, making sure it’s evenly distributed for the best flavor.

Step 5: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for approximately 4 hours. You know it’s ready when the pork shreds easily with a fork.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry. Pour this into the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover for another 15-30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice or shred the pork as desired. Serve it drizzled with sauce or nestle it in a bed of mashed potatoes. The choice is entirely yours. Enjoy the incredible flavors and the easy cleanup that follows!

Notes

Here are some tips to make the process even smoother:

Select the Right Cut: Opt for a pork loin roast for the best balance of flavor and tenderness.
Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing locks in moisture and flavor. It makes a big difference.
Fresh Ingredients Win: Using fresh rosemary and quality honey elevates the dish significantly.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Depending on your preference, you can tweak the amount of honey used.
Leftover Versatility: Don’t let it go to waste! Use leftovers in sandwiches, tacos, or salads.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to meld, which often enhances the dish even further. For longer storage, consider freezing the pork and sauce together in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Please note that these values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas to serve slow cooker cranberry pork:

Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture works wonderfully with the tangy pork.
In Tacos: Shred and serve with corn tortillas, topped with slaw for extra crunch.
With Rice: Textured white or brown rice can soak up the flavorful sauce.
On a Salad: Toss the shredded pork on a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad.
In a Sandwich: A hearty sandwich with fresh bread and greens can make a great lunch.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork?

If you don’t have some ingredients on hand, consider these substitutes:

Pork Tenderloin: Slightly leaner than loin roast but works well and has a quick cooking time.
Apple Juice: Substitute apple cider vinegar with apple juice for a sweeter note.
Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of honey for an equally delightful sweetness.
Vegetable Stock: If you want a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth to create a sauce similar to chicken stock.
Dried Cranberries: If you don’t have cranberry sauce, use dried cranberries with additional water or broth.

Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork Recipe

Content Editor

When I think of a comforting dish like slow cooker cranberry pork, a few side dishes come to mind that can take this meal to the next level.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 10

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 393 kcal

Equipment

Slow cooker, mixing bowl

Ingredients

2 lbs lean pork loin roast
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken stock
1 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp raw honey
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp fresh rosemary
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon