When it comes to comforting, soul-warming meals, few dishes rival a hearty pork stew. The rich flavors and tender texture of slow-cooked pork are perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. And the best part? Slow cooker pork stews are incredibly easy to make! Simply add your favorite ingredients, turn on the slow cooker, and let the magic happen.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and diverse pork stew recipes that will keep you warm and satisfied all winter long. From classic combinations like root vegetables and herbs, to international inspirations like Korean gochujang and Moroccan spices, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of spicy stews or sweet and sour sauces, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into the world of pork stew perfection!
Classic Slow Cooker Pork Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a comforting blend of tender pork, root vegetables, and rich flavors that simmer to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, brown sugar, and thyme. Pour over the pork mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-4 hours
Spicy Mexican Pork Stew with Corn and Beans
This hearty stew combines the bold flavors of Mexico with the comforting warmth of a pork-based broth, all wrapped up in a spicy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork, onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne; stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Stir in corn and black beans; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Garlic and Herb Pork Stew
Savor the rich flavors of this hearty stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the pork to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Apple Cider Braised Pork Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of pork with the sweetness of apple cider, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder or butt, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, apple cider, beef broth, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and falling apart.
5. Remove from the oven and stir in the brown sugar.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that combines tender pulled pork with the rich flavors of smoky BBQ sauce and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Smoky BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, onion, garlic, Smoky BBQ Sauce, chicken broth, bell peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before shredding the pork with two forks.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Thai Coconut Curry Pork Stew
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic stew, featuring tender pork and creamy coconut curry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork, onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add curry paste; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Paprika Pork Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the rich taste of pork with the bold, slightly sweet flavor of Hungarian paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in caraway seeds, cumin, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add browned pork, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; cook, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Tuscan White Bean and Pork Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavors of Tuscan cuisine with tender pork and creamy cannellini beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cannellini beans, chicken broth, white wine, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Korean Gochujang Pork Stew
This spicy and savory stew is a staple of Korean cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering. The combination of tender pork, sweet potatoes, and gochujang (Korean chili paste) creates a rich and flavorful dish that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork, sweet potatoes, gochujang, onion, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Pork Stew
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, caramelized onions, and savory mushrooms in this hearty stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the pork cubes over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms, garlic, chicken broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Pork Stew
A tangy and savory twist on traditional stew, this recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the bold flavor of pork. Perfect for a cozy evening meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add pineapple, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, salt, pepper, and garlic. Stir until combined.
4. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Return pork to pot; cover and simmer for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Red Wine Braised Pork Stew with Rosemary
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender pork, rich red wine, and aromatic rosemary. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot, cover, and bring to a simmer.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the pork is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Cuban Mojo Pork Stew with Plantains
Cuban Mojo Pork Stew with Plantains Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this hearty and aromatic pork stew, served with sweet plantains for a delightful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup mojo marinade (see below)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2-3 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
Mojo Marinade:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork pieces, mojo marinade, onions, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Brown pork on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, browned pork, and sliced plantains to the pot. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until pork is tender and plantains are caramelized.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Pork Stew with Apricots
Savor the bold flavors of Morocco with this aromatic stew, where tender pork and sweet apricots meld together in a rich, spice-infused broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown pork pieces, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in tomatoes, broth, water, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Return pork to the pot, cover, and simmer for 2 hours or until tender.
6. Stir in apricots during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Bourbon Glazed Pork Stew with Sweet Potatoes
A rich and comforting stew that combines the tender flavors of pork, sweet potatoes, and a hint of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the pork pieces in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and bourbon (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the browned pork to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
German Beer and Mustard Pork Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork, beer, and mustard to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup German-style beer (such as Oktoberfest or Märzen)
– 2 tablespoons mustard (German-style or whole-grain)
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove pork from pot and set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add beer to pot and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Return pork to pot and stir in mustard, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 1 1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Mediterranean Olive and Lemon Pork Stew
Mediterranean Olive and Lemon Pork Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork, olives, and lemon, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork cubes, about 5 minutes, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add olives, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned pork to the pot; add chicken broth.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Pork Stew with Sweet Peppers
This hearty stew combines the bold flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning with tender pork and sweet bell peppers, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 large sweet bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork, onion, garlic, ginger, and jerk seasoning. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until pork is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Chinese Five-Spice Pork Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the bold flavors of five-spice powder with tender pork and comforting vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers)
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in five-spice powder, soy sauce, and black pepper.
5. Add mixed vegetables, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
6. Season with additional salt if needed.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Southern Style Pork Stew with Collard Greens
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavors of pork, collard greens, and Southern spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 2 cups pork broth or chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork pieces in batches, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add collard greens, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 hearty pork stew recipes perfect for slow cooker comfort. From classic combinations like root vegetables and garlic to international twists like Mexican spices, Thai curry, and Hungarian paprika, there’s something for everyone. Try braising pork in apple cider, caramelizing onions with mushrooms, or adding a sweet and sour pineapple twist. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, smoky, or creamy, these stews are sure to become new family favorites. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a warm, comforting bowl of goodness.