Slow Cooker Apple-Infused Pork Roast
Indulge in the aromatic flavors of fall with this Slow Cooker Apple-Infused Pork Roast. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish melds tender pork loin with sweet apples, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The blend of apple juice, brown sugar, and ground ginger brings out a delightful sweetness that balances the savory richness of the pork. Simply set it in your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and enjoy the delicious results.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
pork loin roast
4 lbs (trimmed of excess fat)
apples
6 (cored and quartered)
apple juice
1/4 cup (none)
brown sugar
3 tablespoons (none)
ground ginger
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your broiler.
2
Rub the pork loin roast generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3
Place the roast under the broiler for about 5-7 minutes to brown the surfaces and remove excess fat. Drain any rendered fat.
4
While the roast is browning, core and quarter the apples. Set them aside.
5
In the bottom of your slow cooker, layer the apple quarters evenly.
6
Carefully place the browned pork roast on top of the apples, allowing the juices to meld.
7
In a separate bowl, mix together the apple juice, brown sugar, and ground ginger until well combined.
8
Spoon the mixture over the top of the pork roast, ensuring it is well moistened.
9
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 10 to 12 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
10
Once cooked, serve the pork roast warm, drizzled with the apple glaze and accompanied by the tender apples.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow Cooker Apple-Infused Pork Roast?
It is a savory and sweet fall-inspired dish featuring a 4-lb pork loin roast cooked slowly with apples, apple juice, brown sugar, and ginger.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
What type of meat is required for this recipe?
You will need a 4-pound pork loin roast, trimmed of excess fat.
What are the primary ingredients for the glaze?
The glaze is made from a mixture of apple juice, brown sugar, and ground ginger.
How should I prepare the pork before putting it in the slow cooker?
Rub the roast with salt and pepper, then broil it for 5-7 minutes to brown the surface and remove excess fat.
How do I prepare the apples?
The apples should be cored and quartered before being placed in the slow cooker.
How many apples are needed?
The recipe calls for 6 apples.
Where do the apples go in the slow cooker?
The apple quarters should be layered evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker.
What is the recommended cooking time?
The pork roast should be cooked for 10 to 12 hours.
What setting should I use on my slow cooker?
You should use the low setting for this recipe.
How do I know when the pork is finished cooking?
The pork is ready when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
How much apple juice is used in the sauce?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of apple juice.
How much brown sugar is used?
You will need 3 tablespoons of brown sugar.
What spice gives the roast its distinct flavor?
Ground ginger is used to add a warm, spicy note to the apple glaze.
Should I season the pork before broiling?
Yes, generously rub the pork loin roast with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
Do I need to drain the fat?
Yes, after broiling the pork, you should drain any rendered fat before moving it to the slow cooker.
How should the glaze be applied?
Spoon the mixture of juice, sugar, and ginger over the top of the pork roast once it is placed on the apples.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal since the meat and fruit cook together.
What is the best season to serve this dish?
While great year-round, its flavors are particularly well-suited for fall.
How should the final dish be served?
Serve the pork roast warm, drizzled with the apple glaze and accompanied by the cooked apples.
Can I use a Crock-Pot for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed for a slow cooker or Crock-Pot.
What is the preparation time for the broiler step?
The broiler step takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Is ground ginger or fresh ginger used?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of ground ginger.
Should the pork be placed directly on the bottom of the slow cooker?
No, the pork should be placed on top of the layer of apples.
Can I shred the pork once it is done?
Yes, the instructions state it should be tender enough to shred with a fork.
Does the recipe require any liquid other than apple juice?
No, the only liquid ingredient listed is 1/4 cup of apple juice.
Is the pork loin roast supposed to be trimmed?
Yes, the ingredients list notes the pork should be trimmed of excess fat.
Can this be used for a family meal?
Yes, it is noted as being perfect for family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners.
What is the texture of the apples after cooking?
The apples become tender after the 10-12 hour slow cooking process.
Is the brown sugar mixed with anything?
Yes, it is mixed with apple juice and ground ginger to create the glaze.