Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and flavor-packed? This Slow Cooker Garlic & Brown Sugar Teriyaki Pork will easily become a family favorite. Tender, juicy pork is simmered low and slow in a savory-sweet sauce infused with garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth entrée bursting with umami goodness that tastes like it came straight from your favorite takeout spot—except it's homemade!
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want minimal effort but maximum payoff. It’s versatile enough to pair with rice, steamed veggies, or even noodles. The best part? Your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while your home fills with the irresistible aroma of teriyaki.
Ingredients
For the pork and sauce:
- 2–3 lbs pork shoulder or pork roast
- ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- ¼ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For thickening the sauce (optional):
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For garnish (optional):
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pork
Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder to keep the dish flavorful without being greasy. If the pork is too big to fit comfortably in your slow cooker, cut it into large pieces.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, water, honey, and sesame oil. This combination creates the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors that defines teriyaki sauce.
Step 3: Assemble and Cook
Place the pork into your slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the top, ensuring the pork is fully coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 7–8 hours or high heat for 4–5 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a small saucepan. Combine the cornstarch and water in a separate bowl to form a slurry, then add it to the sauce. Simmer over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the pork and toss to coat evenly. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flair.
Tips for Serving
- Serve the teriyaki pork over steamed white or brown rice for a classic pairing. Jasmine or sushi rice work beautifully.
- Add a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to round out the meal.
- Feeling adventurous? Try serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat options: While pork shoulder is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can swap it out for chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or even beef chuck roast. Adjust the cooking time based on the cut of meat.
- Spicy kick: Stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to give the dish a little heat.
- Extra tanginess: Add a splash of pineapple juice or orange juice for a tropical twist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
With its rich, sticky sauce and fork-tender pork, this dish is the definition of comfort food. It's easy, approachable, and practically foolproof—perfect for experienced cooks and beginners alike. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or meal-prepping for the week, Slow Cooker Garlic & Brown Sugar Teriyaki Pork will quickly become your go-to recipe for satisfying cravings without breaking a sweat.
Make it once, and you’ll see—this dish is pure magic!
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