Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork

Edi toron

(Serves 6)

For the Pork:

  • 2½–3 lbs (1.1–1.4 kg) boneless pork shoulder (or pork butt), cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (for optional searing)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

  • ½ cup honey (or pure maple syrup)
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for GF)
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (for depth and color—trust us!)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, for thickening)

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Don’t skip the vinegar—it balances the sweetness.
  • Ketchup adds umami and body—not sweetness!
  • Searing is optional but adds depth (skip if short on time).

Step-by-Step Instructions (Effortless & Flavorful)

1. Sear (Optional but Recommended)

  • Pat pork dry. Season with salt and pepper.
  • In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Sear pork on all sides (3–4 mins total).
  • Transfer to slow cooker.

2. Make the Sauce

  • In a bowl, whisk honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, ketchup, and red pepper flakes.
  • Pour over pork in slow cooker. Stir gently.

3. Cook Low & Slow

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until pork shreds easily with a fork.

4. Thicken the Sauce

  • Remove pork, shred, and return to pot.
  • Stir cornstarch slurry into the sauce.
  • Switch slow cooker to HIGH, uncovered, and cook 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until glossy and thickened.

5. Serve with Soul

  • Spoon over steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

  • 🥢 Classic: With steamed broccoli or snap peas
  • 🌶️ Spicy twist: Add sriracha or chili oil at the table
  • 🍲 Bowl style: Over rice with a fried egg and kimchi
  • 🥢 Let guests build their own: Set out extra sauce, lime wedges, and pickled veggies

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Flavor deepens overnight—great for meal prep!
  • Store in fridge up to 4 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on stove with a splash of water or broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pork tenderloin?
A: Not recommended—it’s lean and will dry out. Pork shoulder’s marbling is key for tenderness.

Q: My sauce is too sweet—what do I do?
A: Add more vinegar or a splash of soy sauce next time. Always taste before thickening!

Q: No cornstarch?
A: Use 1 tbsp arrowroot or just reduce sauce on the stove (remove pork first).

Q: Gluten-free?
A: Yes—use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

A Bowl Full of Quiet Comfort

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork isn’t just dinner—it’s reassurance in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a family, recovering from a long week, or just craving something deeply satisfying, it delivers warmth, flavor, and ease in every bite.

So chop that garlic, grab that honey, and let your slow cooker work its magic. Because sometimes, the best meals aren’t planned—they’re simmered with care and served with joy.

“Good food doesn’t need a crowd—but it always leaves room for seconds.” 🍯🐷✨