This apricot glazed pork slow cooker recipe is a delicious, kid-friendly meal that combines tender, juicy pork with a naturally sweet and tangy apricot glaze. Using a slow cooker means the pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft, making it easy for kids to enjoy without tough or chewy bites. The mild sweetness and simple flavors appeal to younger palates while providing a nutritious, satisfying dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900g) boneless pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 cup apricot preserves (preferably low sugar)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on soy sauce saltiness)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Place the thinly sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps prevent the pork from sticking and adds flavor.
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and place it on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt if using until smooth.
- Pour the apricot glaze mixture evenly over the pork, making sure it’s well coated.
- Add the water or chicken broth around the pork to keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The pork is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce for glazing, transfer the cooking liquid to a small saucepan, bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened, stirring constantly. Pour the glaze back over the shredded pork and toss gently to coat.
- Serve warm, making sure to include some of the apricot glaze for added flavor.
Tips
- Meat choice: Pork shoulder/butt is ideal because of its fat content and tenderness after slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts like pork loin, which can dry out.
- Substitutions: If apricot preserves aren’t available, peach or mango preserves can work as a sweet glaze alternative. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
- Slow cooker size: Use a 4-6 quart slow cooker for best results. Overcrowding the pot will affect cooking time and texture.
- Common mistake: Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry if you want a thicker glaze. The sauce can be watery otherwise, which kids may find less appealing.
Serving Suggestions
This apricot glazed pork is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with kid-friendly sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious glaze. Steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, or broccoli add color and nutrition. For a fun twist, try serving the pork in soft slider buns with a little extra glaze for a handheld meal kids love. You can also add a simple side salad or fruit slices like apple or pear for a balanced plate.
Variations
To keep this recipe exciting or cater to different tastes, consider these variations:
- Spicy Apricot Pork: Add 1/2 teaspoon mild chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the glaze for a gentle heat that older kids may enjoy.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the slow cooker for an earthy aroma and flavor boost.
- Orange Apricot Glaze: Substitute half the apple cider vinegar with fresh orange juice for a citrus twist.
- Vegetable Medley: Add chopped carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover apricot glazed pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the glaze if it has thickened too much. For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork (with sauce) in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?
While you can use pork loin, it is much leaner and prone to drying out during slow cooking. Pork shoulder or butt is preferred because the fat melts and keeps the meat tender and juicy over long cooking times.
Is this recipe safe for kids with allergies?
This recipe contains soy sauce, which has soy and wheat. For kids with soy or gluten allergies, substitute tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) or coconut aminos. Always check labels and consult with your pediatrician if unsure.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Start cooking the next day. Alternatively, cook fully and reheat before serving, which also helps flavors deepen.
How do I know when the pork is done?
The pork is done when it easily pulls apart with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C) for shredding. Use a meat thermometer if available for accuracy.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake the pork shoulder covered in the apricot glaze at 300°F (150°C) for about 3 to 4 hours, until tender. Use a roasting pan and cover tightly with foil to retain moisture.
What can I do with leftover apricot glaze?
Leftover glaze is great as a dipping sauce for chicken nuggets, roasted vegetables, or even drizzled on grilled cheese sandwiches for a sweet-savory twist kids might enjoy.
This apricot glazed pork slow cooker recipe is a fantastic way to introduce flavorful, tender pork to kids in a simple, fuss-free way. Its natural sweetness and melt-in-the-mouth texture make it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and enjoy any night of the week.
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