Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the pork tenderloin into bite-sized chunks. Chop the bell pepper and onion, and mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Pork: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks and sauté until browned on all sides. This step is optional but helps to lock in the flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned pork to the slow cooker. Add the pineapple chunks, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this mixture over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cook the Dish: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Serve: Once cooked, give the mixture a good stir. Serve the Pineapple Pork over steamed rice or alongside your favorite side dishes.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or baby corn to the mix for extra nutrition and color.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired spice level, or omit them altogether for a milder dish.
- Marinating the Pork: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the pork in the soy sauce mixture for a few hours before cooking.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Pineapple Pork dish also freezes well. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.