Slow Cooker Pickled Pork is a delicious and tender dinner meal that you can easily enjoy using pork shoulder, malt vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, onion, bay leaf, celery, and carrot.

To make Pickled Pork in your slow cooker or crockpot, cook on low heat for 7-8 hours until the pork is tender.

I love how the flavors meld together so beautifully. This recipe reminds me of Sunday family dinners, warm and comforting. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a hearty meal!

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Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different cut of pork, such as pork loin or pork butt. Ensure the cut has enough fat to keep the meat tender during slow cooking. Lean cuts may become dry, so choose a well-marbled option for the best results.

Slow Cooked Pickled Pork Ingredients

• 2 kg of pork shoulder
• 1/2 cup of malt vinegar
• 3 tbsp of brown sugar
• 2 tsp of ginger (optional)
• 1 large onion, thickly sliced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 celery stick, sliced
• 1 carrot, thickly sliced

How To Make Slow Cooked Pickled Pork

1. Prepare the base: Place the thickly sliced onions on the base of the slow cooker, ensuring they are spread evenly.
2. Add the meat: Place the pork shoulder on top of the onions, making sure it sits evenly and securely.
3. Add the remaining ingredients: Add the malt vinegar, brown sugar, ginger if you are using it, bay leaf, sliced celery, and thickly sliced carrot, spreading them around the meat.
4. Cover with water: Pour enough water into the slow cooker to cover the meat and vegetables completely, ensuring everything is submerged.
5. Start cooking: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 7-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
6. Simmer and serve: If you prefer to use a stovetop method, bring the contents to a simmer slowly over medium heat, which should take about 40 minutes. Once simmering, cook for 30 minutes per 500 grams of meat. Drain the liquid and serve the pork with parsley sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or bell peppers to the slow cooker. Cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Adding a variety of vegetables can enhance the flavor and texture of your meal.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the right cut: Use pork shoulder for the best texture and flavor; it becomes tender after slow cooking.
• Trim excess fat: Remove excess fat from the pork shoulder to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
• Submerge fully: Ensure the meat and vegetables are completely covered with water to cook evenly and avoid drying out.
• Cook on low: Use the low setting on your slow cooker for a tender, flavorful result, avoiding the temptation to use high heat.
• Flavor boost: Add a few cloves of garlic and some black peppercorns to the slow cooker for extra depth of flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Add garlic and herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, add a few cloves of garlic and some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the slow cooker.
• Use apple cider vinegar: Replace malt vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor profile in the pickled pork.
• Spicy twist: Add a sliced chili or a pinch of chili flakes to the slow cooker if you prefer a bit of heat in your dish.
• Different vegetables: Substitute or add other root vegetables like parsnips or potatoes to vary the texture and taste of the dish.
• Glaze finish: Brush the cooked pork with a mixture of honey and mustard, then broil it for a few minutes to get a caramelized, flavorful crust.

What To Serve With Pickled Pork

Serve your pickled pork with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, honey-glazed carrots, and apple slaw for a delicious meal. I also love pairing it with crusty bread and tangy sauerkraut.

You can also pair it with buttered green beans, garlic mashed cauliflower, and a simple garden salad.

How To Store Leftover Pickled Pork

In The Fridge:

Store leftover pickled pork in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the pork is completely cooled before refrigerating. I suggest labeling the container with the date to keep track.

In The Freezer:

Freeze leftover pickled pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I recommend slicing the pork and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. This makes it easier to reheat portions later.

How To Reheat Leftover Pickled Pork

Reheat your leftover pickled pork in a covered skillet over medium heat until thoroughly heated, about 10-15 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Or, microwave on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, covered, until warm, about 2-3 minutes.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Balsamic Pork Chops
• Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Apple Slices
• Slow Cooker Pork Belly Slices