Oh, let me tell you a little something about my love affair with food! Every Valentines’s Day, my partner and I like to whip up something delicious and memorable to share. And what’s better than a cozy night in with some Crockpot Pulled Pork Sliders? Seriously, it’s the perfect blend of flavors and comfort, and what’s more romantic than that? To be honest, every time I take a bite, I remember that amazing evening we spent reminiscing over good food and a glass of wine, feeling like the world just melts away.
This recipe is not just about the flavors; it’s all about creating that warmth and love in the atmosphere. Plus, cooking with a Crockpot means I can spend more time enjoying my partner’s company instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Trust me, this dish will steal your heart just like it did mine.
What’s in Crockpot Pulled Pork for Valentine’s Day Sliders?
Pork Shoulder: The star of the show! I always choose a nice, well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum tenderness. It cooks down beautifully, making it super juicy and flavorful.
BBQ Sauce: You can either make your own (and I wholeheartedly encourage it if you have the time) or grab a bottle from your favorite store. I adore a tangy sweet sauce that compliments the pork perfectly. Look for one that’s low in sugar if you want.
Onion: A couple of good onions add depth to the flavor. You can slice them or just throw them whole into the pot because they break down beautifully during cooking.
Garlic: Can you ever go wrong with garlic? I usually use fresh cloves, because it adds an aromatic layer that just sings.
Spices: We’ll be using some paprika, salt, and pepper. These simple spices balance everything out beautifully—trust me, less is more here.
Slider Buns: Don’t skip on quality for your buns! Soft, pillowy little buns are what make these sliders heavenly.
Is Crockpot Pulled Pork for Valentine’s Day Sliders Good for You?
Absolutely! While this dish has its indulgences, especially with the BBQ sauce, there are some healthy benefits to it as well.
Pork Shoulder: This is a great source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins and zinc. The key is moderation!
Barbecue Sauce: If you use a lower-sugar sauce or make your own, you can control the ingredients and make a healthier version.
Onions and Garlic: Both are known for their antioxidant properties, and garlic can even help support your immune system.
So while these sliders aren’t exactly a salad, they’re not too shabby when it comes to satisfying and nourishing your body. Just remember, balance is key!
Ingredients List
– 2-3 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand)
– 1 large onion, sliced or whole
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Slider buns (for about 8 servings)
How to Make Crockpot Pulled Pork for Valentine’s Day Sliders?
1. **Prep the Pork**: Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and paprika. Make sure to rub it in well so that flavor penetrates nicely.
2. **Add Ingredients to the Crockpot**: Place the sliced or whole onion in the bottom of the Crockpot, then lay the pork shoulder on top. Follow up by adding minced garlic and pour the BBQ sauce over everything.
3. **Slow Cook**: Cover the Crockpot and set it on low for 8-10 hours or high for about 4-5 hours. You want that pork to be fall-apart tender!
4. **Shred the Meat**: Once done, carefully remove the pork from the Crockpot and shred it using two forks. It should just pull apart effortlessly.
5. **Serve**: Mix the shredded pork back into the juices remaining in the Crockpot for extra flavor. Assemble your sliders by placing generous portions of the pulled pork on the slider buns.
6. **Enjoy**: I usually serve mine with some coleslaw for a crunchy contrast, but feel free to add your favorite toppings!
Slider Game On!
– **Variations**: You can add different spices or even a soda like Coca-Cola or root beer to the BBQ sauce for a unique twist!
– **Serving Suggestions**: Besides coleslaw, pickles and jalapeños make great toppings for an added crunch.
– **Make-ahead**: The pulled pork can be made a day in advance and reheated. It’s even better the second day!
I hope you get as much joy from making and sharing these Crockpot Pulled Pork Sliders as I do! They’ve become a tradition in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try them. Remember to savor each bite and let me know how it goes! Happy cooking, my friends!