Introduction
This delicious recipe for slow-cooked pork in a honey butter sauce is perfect for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of spices gives the pork a bold flavor, while the honey butter sauce adds a sweet and tangy finish. With minimal preparation and hands-on cooking time, this dish is sure to impress!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pork
1.75 – 2.5 kg (3.5 – 5 pounds) pork loin or shoulder/boston butt (or scotch fillet, skinless)
Spice Rub
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
Honey Butter Sauce
¾ cup honey
125 g (½ cup) unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup cider vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce Thickener
3 teaspoons cornflour/cornstarch mixed with a splash of water
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 to 10 hours (depending on the cut of pork)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Pork
Pat the pork dry with paper towels. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the pork and rub it all over.
Apply the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the pork, rubbing it in to coat all sides.
Sear the Pork
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until it develops a deep golden-brown crust, being careful not to burn the spices. Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker.
Prepare the Honey Butter Sauce
Wipe the skillet clean and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until golden. Stir in the honey, cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 30 seconds.
Cook the Pork
Pour the honey butter sauce over the pork in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours (or 10 hours if using pork shoulder) until the pork is tender but still sliceable.
Rest the Pork
Once cooked, transfer the pork to a serving plate. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 to 20 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce
Pour the juices from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Add the cornflour/cornstarch mixture and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve
Slice the pork thickly and serve with the honey butter sauce poured over the top.
Notes
Pork Cut Options
You can use pork loin, shoulder, Boston butt, or scotch fillet as per your preference.
Spiciness Adjustment
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance.
Resting Time
Let the pork rest before slicing to ensure that the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Thickening Consistency
If the sauce is too thin after thickening, you can add more cornflour/cornstarch mixed with water and continue to simmer.
Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Pork
Patting the pork dry helps to ensure a good sear. Rubbing olive oil over the surface keeps the spices adhered and enhances browning.
Applying the Spice Rub
Mixing the spices together before applying them evenly to the pork allows for balanced flavor distribution. Rubbing the mixture into the meat ensures it penetrates deeply.
Searing the Pork
Using a hot skillet to sear the pork creates a golden-brown crust, enhancing flavor through caramelization. This step also helps to lock in moisture.
Preparing the Honey Butter Sauce
Starting with a clean skillet after searing helps prevent burnt bits from affecting the sauce’s flavor. The order of adding ingredients allows the garlic to infuse its flavor into the butter and honey mixture.
Cooking the Pork
Cooking the pork low and slow in a slow cooker breaks down the connective tissue, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. The honey butter sauce adds sweetness and richness.
Resting the Pork
Allowing the pork to rest after cooking lets the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring moist slices.
Thickening the Sauce
Using a cornflour/cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce creates a silky texture. Simmering it briefly allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to reach the desired consistency.
Serving
Slicing the pork thickly ensures each piece retains its juiciness, and pouring the sauce on top enhances presentation and flavor.
FAQ
What cut of pork is best for this recipe?
Pork loin or shoulder/boston butt works best for this recipe, as they become tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
Can I use other spices in the rub?
Yes, feel free to customize the spice rub with your favorite spices to suit your taste preferences.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
Cayenne pepper is optional; it adds a bit of heat. You can omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make the honey butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey butter sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, mix additional cornflour/cornstarch with a little water and add it to the saucepan while simmering until the desired thickness is achieved.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the cooked pork and sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork and sauce. It’s best to consume it within 2-3 months for optimal quality.
Conclusion
The combination of a well-seasoned pork roast with a rich honey butter sauce creates a delightful dish that is both savory and sweet. The slow cooking method ensures that the pork remains tender and flavorful, while the sauce adds a luscious finish that can elevate any meal. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Honey Garlic Chicken
A similar flavor profile can be achieved using bone-in chicken thighs coated in a honey garlic sauce for a quick and easy meal.
Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos
For a twist, marinate shrimp in a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne before grilling, then serve in soft tortillas with a honey drizzle.
Roasted Vegetables
Roast a mix of seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and spices for a colorful and healthy side dish that complements the pork.
BBQ Pork Sliders
Use the pulled pork from this recipe to create delicious sliders with coleslaw and pickled jalapeños for an easy, crowd-pleasing option.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Create meatballs using ground pork, seasoned similarly, and toss it in a honey and vinegar glaze for a tasty appetizer.
Garlic Butter Pasta
Pair your meal with pasta tossed in a garlic butter sauce, utilizing leftover honey butter sauce for a cohesive flavor experience.
