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Crockpot Pork Stew

This crockpot pork stew combines tender chunks of pork shoulder with earthy vegetables, slow-cooked to a rich, comforting perfection. The long simmering process transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, slightly thickened dish with a warm, inviting aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s an effortless, homey meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds pork shoulder cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 3 carrots carrots sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large onion sliced into strips
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups broth chicken or beef, low-sodium preferred
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 bay leaves bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste Seasoning

Equipment

  • Large slow cooker
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by gathering your equipment: a large slow cooker, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a wooden spoon for stirring.
  2. Cut the pork shoulder into 2-inch chunks, trimming off excess fat if you like. This helps the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully.
  3. Slice the carrots into bite-sized pieces and thinly slice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves finely to release their aromatic oils.
  4. Layer the pork chunks in the bottom of the slow cooker, then scatter the sliced carrots and onions on top.
  5. Pour in the broth, add the tablespoon of tomato paste, and sprinkle in the minced garlic. Toss in the bay leaves and dried thyme for flavor.
  6. Season generously with salt and pepper, then cover the slow cooker with its lid.
  7. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for about 8 hours. Your house will fill with a warm, savory aroma as the pork becomes tender and starts to fall apart.
  8. Halfway through, check the stew and give it a gentle stir to distribute the flavors. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth to loosen it up.
  9. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the bay leaves and give the stew a taste. Adjust seasoning if needed, perhaps a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
  10. Let the stew sit for a few minutes to settle, then ladle it into bowls. The pork should be meltingly tender, and the vegetables soft and flavorful, with a slightly thickened, hearty sauce.

Notes

For extra depth, sear the pork chunks in a hot skillet until golden before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances flavor and adds a rich color to the stew. You can also substitute the vegetables or herbs based on what you have on hand, making this dish highly customizable.