Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the recipe! If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you might try using pork loin, but it may require a bit more cooking time and might not be as tender. Make sure to choose a cut that’s also lean and good for slow cooking.

Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth is great, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can replace it with vegetable broth or even water if you need a lighter flavor.

Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a rich umami flavor. You can substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will change the flavor slightly but still keep it tasty!

Brown Sugar & Honey: These two ingredients add necessary sweetness. If you’re cutting back on sugar, you could use maple syrup or agave nectar. Just know that it may change the taste a touch.

Apple Cider Vinegar: This gives a nice tang. If you’re out, you can use white vinegar or rice vinegar instead. They will still work well in the glaze.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor, but garlic powder can be a quicker substitute—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.

How Do I Get the Sauce to Thicken Perfectly?

If you want a thicker sauce, it’s super easy. Using cornstarch is a fab option. Just follow these simple steps:

• After removing the cooked pork, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. This is your slurry.
• Turn the slow cooker to high heat and stir the slurry into the remaining sauce.
• Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens nicely.

Make sure you monitor it closely so it doesn’t over-thicken, and adjust with a little water if needed. This technique gives you a glossy, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pork!

How to Make Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pork and Glaze:

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5-2 lbs total)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Thickening (Optional):

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll have to set aside 6 to 8 hours for it to cook in your slow cooker. So, overall, plan for a total time of about 6 to 8 hours and 15 minutes. Perfect for when you want to enjoy a tasty meal with minimal effort!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Glaze:

Start by grabbing a small bowl and whisking together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. This delicious mixture is your glaze, and it’s going to give the pork a wonderful flavor!

2. Prepare the Pork:

Now, take your pork tenderloins and place them in the slow cooker. Pour the glaze mixture over the pork, making sure to coat it well. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor!

3. Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. You will know the pork is done when it’s tender and has an internal temperature of 145°F. The low and slow cooking will make it juicy and full of flavor!

4. Slice the Pork:

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time is important because it allows the juices to redistribute. After resting, slice the pork into medallions!

5. Optional Thickening:

If you like a thicker sauce, here’s a quick tip: mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Turn the slow cooker to high, stir the slurry into the glaze, and let it cook for about 10 minutes to thicken up. This is great if you want a richer sauce!

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Now it’s time to serve! Place the sliced pork on a plate, drizzle the delicious glaze over the top, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your flavorful glazed pork tenderloin—it’s sure to be a hit!

Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?

Yes, you can! While pork tenderloin is recommended for its tenderness, you can use pork loin or pork shoulder. Keep in mind that these cuts may require slightly longer cooking times to become tender. Just ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe consumption.

What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium version. Both options will provide a similar umami flavor to the dish!

How to Store Leftovers?

Let any leftovers cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli to the slow cooker alongside the pork. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly within the same cooking time.