Pork in the Crock Pot

Pork in the Crock Pot – a savory recipe that transforms a simple piece of meat into a delicious dish, with rich flavors and a tender texture. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to enjoy a comforting lunch or dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Step into the world of slow cooking and let the enticing aromas fill your home.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours (High) or 7 hours (Low)
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of pork (about 2 cm thick)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 1 teaspoon sugar (preferably brown)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch or potato starch
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- a few fresh basil leaves
- a few fresh parsley leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons of oil for frying

Recipe story:
The pork dish in the Crock Pot is a traditional cooking method that combines frying techniques with slow cooking. This approach allows the flavors to develop over several hours, resulting in tender and juicy meat. In the past, slow cooking was a common practice used to transform simple ingredients into comforting, flavor-rich meals.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by seasoning the pork pieces with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is essential to add a base flavor to your dish.

2. Frying the meat:
In a large skillet, add 3-4 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the meat pieces and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. This step not only adds a crispy texture but also intensifies the final aroma of the dish. Once done, remove the meat to a plate and cover it with a towel to keep it warm.

3. Preparing the sauce:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until golden, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it. Garlic will add extra flavor, so don’t neglect it!

4. Deglazing the skillet:
Pour the red wine into the skillet and stir well, making sure to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step will add depth to your sauce. Then, add the sugar and stir again. The sugar will balance the acidity of the wine and add a subtle sweetness.

5. Thickening the sauce:
Dissolve the cornstarch in cold chicken or beef broth and add it to the skillet. Let it boil until the sauce thickens, forming a delicious base for the pork.

6. Preparing for the Crock Pot:
Transfer the fried meat pieces to the Crock Pot. Add the sauce obtained, along with the juices left on the plate, the bay leaf, chopped parsley, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover the Crock Pot.

7. Slow cooking:
Set the Crock Pot on High for 4 hours or Low for 7 hours. This is where the magic happens – the flavors combine, and the meat becomes incredibly tender.

8. Serving:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the meat from the Crock Pot and serve it with mashed potatoes or cauliflower, while rice is also an excellent choice. Add some pickles on the side for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the meat: Choose a piece of pork with a higher fat content (for example, pork shoulder) to achieve a juicier dish.
- The wine: If you don’t want to use wine, you can replace it with the same amount of broth.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the Crock Pot to create a complete dish.
- Thickening the sauce: If you want an even thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch or let the sauce boil longer after adding the cornstarch.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, this recipe can be adapted for chicken or beef as well. Cooking time may vary, so make sure to check the meat to ensure it is well cooked.
- What are the nutritional benefits? Pork is an excellent source of protein and contains essential vitamins like B12. Adding vegetables can further enhance the nutritional value of the meal.
- What drinks pair best? A dry red wine pairs perfectly with this dish, but a craft beer or even iced tea can complement the meal beautifully.

I encourage you to play with the ingredients and put your personal touch on the recipe. Whether you choose to add your favorite spices or adjust the amount of wine, each modification will make the dish unique. So embark on your culinary journey and enjoy every bite!