Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and effortless meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor? Look no further! This paleo slow cooker pulled pork recipe is your answer. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, this recipe delivers tender, juicy pork bursting with smoky flavor. It's a fantastic example of how easy and satisfying healthy eating can be. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet extraordinary dish – a true champion among easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup bone broth or water
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- In a large bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Slow Cooking the Pork:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until lightly browned. This step adds depth of flavor.
- Transfer the seared pork to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the pork.
- Pour the bone broth (or water) and apple cider vinegar over the pork and vegetables.
Cooking and Serving:
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is easily shredded with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender meat.
- Using two forks, shred the pork. Discard any large pieces of fat.
- Mix some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker with the shredded pork to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious paleo pulled pork on its own, in lettuce wraps, or with a side of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or broccoli. It also pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or cauliflower mash. This versatile dish is a great base for many different healthy meals.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra smoky flavor: Add a few chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the slow cooker.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Add some sweetness: A tablespoon of maple syrup or honey (ensure it's compliant with your specific paleo guidelines) adds a touch of sweetness.
- Make it a meal prep staple: This recipe makes excellent leftovers! Store the pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This paleo slow cooker pulled pork recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. It’s a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and satisfying, proving that homemade cooking can be easy and rewarding. Enjoy!