Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender, succulent pork shoulder infused with the fragrant notes of fennel and rosemary. This Slow Cooker Fennel and Rosemary Pork Shoulder is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight! Perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe promises an effortless way to impress your family and friends. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll want to keep this gem in your recipe arsenal. Ready to discover how to create this mouthwatering dish? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 bulb fennel, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving a thin layer for flavor and moisture.
- Generously season the entire pork shoulder with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Slice the fennel bulb thinly, discarding the tough core and reserving some fronds for garnish if desired.
- Mince the garlic cloves and chop the fresh rosemary leaves finely.
- Place the sliced fennel in the bottom of the slow cooker, creating an even layer to serve as a bed for the pork.
- Sprinkle half of the minced garlic and chopped rosemary over the fennel.
- Carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the fennel layer.
- Scatter the remaining garlic and rosemary over and around the pork.
- Pour the chicken broth around the sides of the pork, being careful not to wash away the seasonings.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and let rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Optional: Strain the cooking liquid and spoon some over the shredded meat for extra moisture and flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with reserved fennel fronds if desired, alongside your favorite sides.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: When selecting your pork shoulder, look for one with a good amount of marbling. This fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! A well-seasoned pork shoulder will enhance the flavors of the fennel and rosemary, creating a deliciously balanced dish.
- Layering is Key: By placing the sliced fennel at the bottom of the slow cooker, you create a flavorful bed for the pork. This not only adds taste but also prevents the meat from sticking.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the pork to rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute, making for an even more succulent result.
- Strain for Extra Flavor: If you want to elevate your dish, consider straining the cooking liquid and drizzling it over the shredded pork. This adds an extra layer of moisture and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with reserved fennel fronds. They add a pop of color and a fresh touch that makes your meal look as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 370kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 135mg
