Irresistible Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder Recipe

Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder is a dish that envelops your kitchen in an irresistible aroma, making even the most reluctant eaters drool with anticipation. Imagine succulent pork shoulder, tender and infused with garlic and rich tomato flavors, simmering away to perfection. The moment you lift the lid off your slow cooker, you’ll be greeted by a warm, comforting scent that feels like a big hug after a long day.

Now, picture this: it’s Sunday afternoon, and you’ve decided to invite friends over for dinner. You want something impressive yet easy to prepare, and this Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder fits the bill perfectly. With minimal effort, you can create a feast that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how tender and flavorful this dish turned out during our last get-together. It was definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pork Shoulder: A 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder works best for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
• Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for roasting; they become sweet and mellow during cooking.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra kick of smoky flavor.
• Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; chop finely to blend seamlessly with the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still adding depth to the flavor.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances richness; it’s worth splurging a little here.
• Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano and basil brings classic Italian flavors; fresh herbs are even better if available!
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t skip these! Adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder

First Step: Begin by preparing your pork shoulder. Pat the meat dry with paper towels before seasoning generously with salt and pepper. This helps create a beautiful crust when searing.

Second Step: In your slow cooker, add chopped onions and garlic cloves at the bottom as a flavorful base. The onion will caramelize beautifully during cooking.

Third Step: Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned pork shoulder on all sides until golden brown—this should take about 4-5 minutes per side. That lovely browning brings so much flavor.

Fourth Step: Transfer the seared pork onto the bed of onions and garlic in your slow cooker. Pour diced tomatoes over the top, followed by chicken broth and Italian seasoning.

Fifth Step: Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for 8 hours or high heat for 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows those flavors to meld beautifully!

Sixth Step: Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks right in the slow cooker while mixing it well with all that delicious sauce. Serve it hot over rice or pasta for an unforgettable meal.

Now that you’ve mastered this Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder recipe, get ready for compliments from family and friends as they savor every bite!

This showstopping Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the pork shoulder first to lock in those delicious juices before adding garlic and tomatoes to the slow cooker. This step enhances flavor while ensuring tender meat. Then, let it cook low and slow for six to eight hours until it falls apart effortlessly. Trust me; your kitchen will smell like a five-star restaurant!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist. You can also swap out the tomatoes for roasted red peppers if you’re feeling adventurous! Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can really elevate the dish’s flavor profile, making it your own culinary masterpiece.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place cooled pork shoulder in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in zip-top bags for up to three months. When reheating, use a slow cooker or stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it juicy and flavorful.

There was that one time I made this dish for my family reunion, and everyone practically fought over the last bite! My aunt still raves about how moist and flavorful it was; I think she might be angling for my recipe! Moments like these remind me why I love cooking—it brings everyone together around the table.

FAQ

What is the best cut of pork for this recipe?

The best cut of pork for Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder is definitely the pork shoulder itself, sometimes labeled as pork butt. This cut has enough fat content to stay tender during long cooking times while providing great flavor as it breaks down.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Using fresh tomatoes can add a lovely brightness to your dish. Just make sure you peel them first for a smoother sauce consistency. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly based on their ripeness.

How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?

The pork is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C). At this point, it should shred easily with two forks—if not, give it some extra cooking time!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder is perfect for meal prep or making ahead of time. Cook it up to three days in advance; just reheat gently so you don’t dry it out.

Conclusion for Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder

In summary, mastering the Slow-Cooked Garlic Tomato Pork Shoulder involves selecting the right cut of meat, allowing ample cooking time for tenderness, and personalizing flavors according to your taste preferences. With easy preparation steps and versatile customization options, this dish promises a delightful experience that will impress family and friends alike—one delicious bite at a time!