There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma that fills your home as Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork simmers away, transforming a simple pork shoulder into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. The first time I tried this dish, I was amazed by how a few hours in the slow cooker could create such deep, savory flavors that danced on my palate. Friends and family would flock to my kitchen, lured in by the tantalizing scent, eager to dig into a meal that feels both exotic and familiar.
Perfect for those long, busy days when you want a delicious homemade meal without the fuss, this recipe is a game changer. With just a handful of ingredients—like soy sauce, honey, and aromatic garlic—you can whip up a dish that’s deliciously versatile, whether served over fluffy rice or nestled in fresh lettuce wraps. No more bland fast food; this is the comfort food you’ve been craving, and it promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering or family dinner.
Give it a try, and prepare to be swooned by the incredible flavors and your friends’ delighted reactions!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork
Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep time, this dish allows your slow cooker to do all the work while you focus on other tasks.
Bold Flavors: The symphony of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates an explosion of taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich—perfect for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike, making any gathering feel special.
Healthy and Homemade: Enjoy a wholesome meal without the preservatives found in takeout. Make sure to check out our tips on creating delicious slow cooker meals for more ideas!
Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork Ingredients
For the Pork
• 5 lbs. pork shoulder/butt/collar roast – This cut provides the perfect balance of meat and fat for tender, juicy pulled pork.
For the Marinade
• ⅓ cup soy sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor essential for your Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork.
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Imparts a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements.
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger – Offers a warm spice that brightens up the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Imparts a nutty richness, elevating the dish.
• ½ teaspoon white pepper – Adds gentle heat without overpowering the other flavors.
For Thickening the Sauce
• 1 ½ tablespoons tapioca starch – Great for creating a glossy, thickened sauce that clings to the pork.
• 2 tablespoons cold water – Used to create a slurry for thickening the sauce effectively.
Optional Toppings
• Sesame seeds – Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Chopped green onions – Provides a fresh, crisp finish.
• Sliced chili peppers – Introduces a spicy kick for those who crave heat.
• Chili sauce – Perfect for drizzling on top for extra zing.
How to Make Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork
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Cut the Pork: Slice the pork roast into 4 large chunks and place them into a large Ziploc bag to get ready for marinating.
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Make the Marinade: In a bowl or measuring cup, combine all the marinade ingredients—soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and white pepper. Whisk together until well mixed.
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Marinate the Pork: Pour the marinade over the pork in the Ziploc bag. Seal it tightly, squeezing out as much air as possible. Let it marinate in the fridge overnight for best flavor absorption.
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Cook the Pork: On cooking day, transfer the marinated pork and all the marinade into your slow cooker. Set it to cook on High for 4-6 hours or Low for 10-12 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
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Shred the Meat: Once cooked, use tongs to carefully remove the pork chunks to a bowl. Shred the meat using two forks until it’s beautifully pulled apart.
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Prepare the Sauce: Transfer all the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until it starts to bubble gently, enhancing that delightful aroma.
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Create a Slurry: In a small bowl, combine the tapioca starch with cold water. Stir well until smooth to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.
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Thicken the Sauce: Stir the slurry into the bubbling sauce in the saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Then, remove it from heat.
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Mix with Pulled Pork: Add 1 cup of the thickened sauce to the shredded pork and mix well to ensure every piece is coated in that savory goodness. Reserve any extra sauce for serving on the side.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve the delicious Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork over rice or in lettuce wraps. Top with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, sliced chili peppers, and chili sauce, if desired.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra herbaceous note!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork
Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavors and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of reserved sauce to keep the pork juicy and flavorful.
Serving Tips: Enjoy it straight from the fridge or after reheating. Pair it with fresh toppings for an upgraded taste experience!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork?
Imagine friends and family gathered around a table, each bite of tender pulled pork inviting smiles and laughter. Elevate your meal experience with delicious pairings that complement the savory flavors you’ve created.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Perfectly cooked jasmine rice absorbs the rich sauce, providing a soft counterpoint to the tender pork.
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Crisp Lettuce Wraps: Fresh lettuce leaves contrast beautifully, adding a crunchy texture that enhances each flavorful bite.
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Tangy Pickled Vegetables: The acidity of pickled veggies cuts through the richness, offering a refreshing zing that brightens the dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing the meal with its subtle bitterness.
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Spicy Szechuan Noodles: These noodles bring a delightful heat that pairs wonderfully with the umami flavors of your pulled pork.
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Cold Beer: A chilled lager or pale ale offers a refreshing respite, complementing the deep flavors of the pork.
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Sweet Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa adds sweetness and brightness, creating a perfect contrast to the savory pulled pork.
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Coconut Cream Dessert: End the meal on a sweet note with a light and creamy coconut dessert, perfect for wrapping up an Asian-inspired feast.
Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork Variations
Explore these easy ways to customize your dish and make it your own!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version that still delivers robust flavor.
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Spicy Twist: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery kick that will excite your taste buds.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate the juice of an orange or lime into the marinade—citrus brightens the dish while adding a refreshing layer of flavor.
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Fruity Flavor: Toss in some diced pineapples during the last hour of cooking. They’ll caramelize slightly and add sweetness to counterbalance the savory pork.
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Rich and Smoky: Substitute the sesame oil with smoked sesame oil for a delightful smoky undertone that deepens the flavor profile beautifully.
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Herbaceous Kick: Blend in fresh chopped cilantro or Thai basil after shredding the pork. This addition introduces a fresh brightness that elevates the dish.
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Veggie Boost: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms in the slow cooker alongside the pork. They’ll soak up the marinade flavors and enhance texture.
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Creamy Finish: For a decadent touch, mix in a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter after shredding the meat for a rich, nutty sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can marinate the pork up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the marinating steps and store the pork in the fridge. For even better flavor, allow the pork to sit in the marinade overnight. On cooking day, transfer the marinated pork to your slow cooker and set it to cook. Once it’s done, shred the meat and store any leftover sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll enjoy bold, restaurant-quality flavors with minimal last-minute effort—just reheat and serve!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork
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Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, allow the pork to marinate overnight. This step enhances the savory taste of your Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork.
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Choose the Right Cut: Opt for pork shoulder, butt, or collar roast. These cuts become incredibly tender with slow cooking, adding juiciness to the final dish.
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Avoid Overcooking: While slow cooking is forgiving, be cautious with timing. Overcooking can lead to dry meat. Check the pork at the lower end of the cooking time.
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Thicken Wisely: When making your sauce, add the slurry gradually. This ensures the sauce thickens perfectly without becoming too gloopy.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Adding fresh herbs or your favorite hot sauce can personalize your Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork for any palate.
Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pork for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing pork for your Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork, opt for cuts like pork shoulder, butt, or collar roast. These cuts have the right amount of fat and connective tissue that cook down beautifully, resulting in tender and juicy pulled pork. Look for meat with a good marbling of fat throughout for the best flavor.
What is the best way to store leftover pulled pork?
Store any leftover Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation. This way, you’ll keep the flavors intact and ready for another delightful meal!
Can I freeze pulled pork, and how do I do it?
Very much so! To freeze your Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags, keeping the sauce separate if possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of the reserved sauce for extra moisture.
What if my sauce is too thin after thickening?
No problem! If your sauce isn’t thickening up as desired, here’s a quick solution: Mix an additional tablespoon of tapioca starch with a tablespoon of cold water to create another slurry. Gradually stir this into the bubbling sauce, and continue cooking for a few minutes until it reaches your preferred consistency. Remember to stir constantly as you add the slurry to ensure a smooth texture!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! To make your Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari or coconut aminos. These options will still deliver a rich umami flavor without the gluten, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious meal regardless of dietary restrictions.
Is this recipe safe for my pets?
While it’s tempting to share your Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork with your furry friends, it’s best to keep it for yourself. The ingredients like garlic and soy sauce can be harmful to pets. Stick to plain, cooked meat without seasoning if you want to treat them!
Savory Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork for Flavorful Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the Pork: Slice the pork roast into 4 large chunks and place them into a large Ziploc bag to get ready for marinating.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl or measuring cup, combine all the marinade ingredients and whisk together until well mixed.
- Marinate the Pork: Pour the marinade over the pork in the Ziploc bag. Seal it tightly and let it marinate in the fridge overnight.
- Cook the Pork: Transfer the marinated pork and all the marinade into your slow cooker. Set it to cook on High for 4-6 hours or Low for 10-12 hours.
- Shred the Meat: Carefully remove the pork chunks and shred the meat using two forks until it’s beautifully pulled apart.
- Prepare the Sauce: Transfer all the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until it starts to bubble gently.
- Create a Slurry: In a small bowl, combine the tapioca starch with cold water. Stir well until smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir the slurry into the bubbling sauce and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Mix with Pulled Pork: Add 1 cup of the thickened sauce to the shredded pork and mix well.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork over rice or in lettuce wraps with optional toppings.