Print

Tender Slow Cooker Spring Pork with Lemon Herb

slow cooker spring pork - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple and flavorful slow cooker pork shoulder recipe infused with fresh lemon zest and herbs, perfect for easy spring dinners. The pork becomes tender and juicy with a bright, herby flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds pork shoulder roast, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 lemons, zested and juiced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, sliced thinly (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and trim any large pieces of excess fat, leaving some fat for tenderness.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss the pork in this mixture to coat evenly. Optionally, cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or overnight.
  3. Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavor bed and prevent sticking.
  4. Put the marinated pork shoulder on top of the onions. Pour any leftover marinade and chicken broth around the meat but not over the top.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until the pork is fork-tender and pulls apart easily. Avoid opening the lid frequently.
  6. After 6 hours, check doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part; if it doesn’t slide in easily, cook for an additional 30-60 minutes.
  7. Transfer the pork to a large dish and let it rest for 10 minutes. Shred the meat with two forks, discarding large fat chunks. Mix shredded pork with the cooking juices for full flavor.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Patting the pork dry helps the seasoning stick better. Layering onions prevents sticking and adds sweetness. Avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently to maintain cooking temperature. If sauce is too thin, simmer juices on stove to reduce. For a crispier texture, broil shredded pork briefly before serving. Can be adapted for Instant Pot slow cook or pressure cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker pork, lemon herb pork, pork shoulder recipe, easy pork dinner, spring pork recipe, slow cooker recipes, tender pork, healthy pork recipe

Find it online: https://avabake.com/tender-slow-cooker-spring-pork-with-lemon-herb-recipe-easy-and-flavorful/