Teriyaki Pork in a Crock Pot

Teriyaki Pork in a Crock Pot: A Savory and Easy Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 hours
Total time: 5 hours and 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the world of Asian flavors! Today, I will present you with a delicious recipe for Teriyaki Pork in a Crock Pot, perfect for those days when your time is limited but your appetite is great. This dish is not only simple to make but also extremely tasty, with a perfect blend of sweet and savory that will delight your taste buds.

The History of Teriyaki

Teriyaki is a cooking technique that dates back centuries, based on marinating meat in a rich sauce that combines umami elements with sweet notes. This method has evolved over time and is now appreciated worldwide. With the help of a Crock Pot, you can achieve tender and juicy pork ready to indulge your senses.

Ingredients

- 1 kg pork (shoulder or chop)
- 4 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup water

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork into evenly sized pieces, so they cook uniformly. Ideally, each piece should be about 3-4 cm. Use a sharp knife to make this task easier.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, mix the dark soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, ground ginger, and garlic powder. This mixture will add a deep flavor to your dish. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or saltiness as needed.

3. Adding the meat: Place the pieces of pork in the Crock Pot. Make sure each piece is well coated with the sauce you prepared. It will penetrate the meat during cooking, providing incredible flavor.

4. Adding water: Pour 1/2 cup of water over the meat and sauce. This will help create a moist cooking environment, essential in the slow cooking process. If you prefer a more concentrated sauce, you can reduce the amount of water.

5. Setting the Crock Pot: Now it’s time to set the device. Choose the HIGH function and set the time for 5 hours. During this time, the aroma will intensify, and the meat will become extremely tender.

6. Thickening the sauce (optional): If after 5 hours you find the sauce too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch mixture. In a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water, mix well, and add this mixture to the Crock Pot 30 minutes before stopping cooking. Stir well to achieve a denser sauce.

7. Serving: Once cooking is complete, the meat will be incredibly tender and flavorful. Serve the teriyaki pork with plain steamed rice, which will absorb the delicious sauce. You can also add steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for extra texture and nutrients.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Pork shoulder is ideal for this recipe as it becomes very tender during slow cooking. Avoid lean meat, as it may become dry.
- Marinating: If you have time, you can marinate the meat in teriyaki sauce for a few hours or even overnight before cooking. This will deepen the flavors.
- Variations: You can add vegetables such as carrots or broccoli in the last 30 minutes of cooking to make a complete, nutrient-rich meal.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of Teriyaki Pork in a Crock Pot (approximately 150-200 g) contains about 350-450 calories, depending on the amount of sauce used. It is a good source of protein due to the pork and contains antioxidants from garlic and ginger, which have benefits for the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can replace pork with chicken or beef. Cooking time will vary, so adjust it according to the type of meat used.

- How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

- How can I serve Teriyaki Pork?
You can also serve it in sandwiches, alongside crunchy vegetables, or use it as a filling for tacos.

Ideal Pairings

To complement the meal, I recommend a dry white wine or a lager beer, which will balance the rich flavors of the dish. Additionally, a salad with fresh vegetables and a light dressing will add a pleasant contrast.

In conclusion, Teriyaki Pork in a Crock Pot is a quick and simple recipe, perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without too much effort. Your family will surely appreciate this dish, and you will add a new favorite to your recipe list! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and enjoy every bite!