Cozy up this winter with a warm and comforting bowl of slow-cooked pork stew. The classic combination of tender pork, flavorful broth, and hearty vegetables is a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 delicious and varied pork stew recipes that are perfect for your slow cooker.
From classic combinations like root vegetables and herbs to international inspirations such as Korean gochujang and Moroccan spices, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these hearty stews are sure to hit the spot. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get started with these 20 mouth-watering pork stew recipes!
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Classic Slow Cooker Pork Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines tender pork, root vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds 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 red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon 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, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Pour mixture over the vegetables.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spicy Mexican Pork Stew with Black Beans and Corn
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, black beans, and corn, all wrapped up in a spicy Mexican-inspired package. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork, then remove and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, browned pork, and black beans.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Creamy Garlic and Herb Pork Stew
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting pork stew, infused with aromatic garlic and herbs. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a warm gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Reduce heat to medium and sauté onion, garlic, rosemary, and thyme for 3-4 minutes.
5. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Return pork to the pot, cover with lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
8. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Apple Cider Braised Pork Stew with Sweet Potatoes
As the seasons change, warm up with this comforting stew that combines tender pork, sweet potatoes, and the flavors of autumn. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a rustic gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high.
3. Brown pork in batches, then set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add apple cider, chicken broth, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return pork to the pot; bring to a boil.
7. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
8. Add sweet potatoes during the last 45 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2 3/4 hours
Smoky Chipotle Pork Stew with Bell Peppers
A hearty, flavorful stew that combines the richness of pork with the smokiness of chipotle peppers and the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers, chipotle peppers, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add pork back into the pot with chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Pork Stew with Soy and Ginger
This hearty stew combines tender pork, aromatic soy sauce, and the warmth of ginger to create a flavorful and comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork in batches, then set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is softened.
4. Add the soy sauce, chicken broth, water, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Tuscan White Bean and Pork Stew with Rosemary
This hearty stew combines tender pork, creamy cannellini beans, and fragrant rosemary for a flavorful and comforting meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cannellini beans, chicken broth, white wine, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return pork to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
BBQ Pulled Pork Stew with Cola Glaze
This recipe combines the tender pull of slow-cooked pork with the sweet and tangy flavors of cola glaze, all wrapped up in a hearty stew. Perfect for a comforting meal or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cola
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the pork shoulder in a little oil. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, cola, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add mushrooms, carrots, and celery. Return pork to pot, cover, and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
5. Glaze with cola mixture (simmered until thickened) during last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Hungarian Paprika Pork Stew with Sour Cream
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the rich flavors of paprika, pork, and sour cream. This traditional Hungarian dish is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, and paprika. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Coconut Curry Pork Stew with Chickpeas
This hearty stew combines tender pork, creamy coconut curry, and nutritious chickpeas in a flavorful and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup curry paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
5. Stir in chickpeas and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Wine Braised Pork Stew with Mushrooms
This hearty stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and rich red wine combine to create a flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork cubes, then set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Add the red wine, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the pork to the pot and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and braise for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Stew with Bok Choy
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this easy-to-make pork stew, infused with the tropical twist of pineapple teriyaki sauce and the crunch of bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 bunch bok choy, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Pour into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pork back into the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in chopped bok choy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Pork Stew with Apricots
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of Moroccan spices with the sweetness of apricots, creating a delicious and exotic dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup apricots, pitted
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
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. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
5. Return pork to the pot; add apricots, broth, and water.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork and Lentil Stew with Carrots and Celery
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender pork, creamy lentils, and flavorful vegetables. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lentils, carrots, celery, onion, broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Maple Dijon Pork Stew with Brussels Sprouts
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard with the tender sweetness of Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Brussels sprouts and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth. Return pork to pot.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Korean Gochujang Pork Stew with Kimchi
This rich and flavorful stew combines the bold flavors of gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste, with tender pork and spicy kimchi. Perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder or ribs
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the pork in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, water, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 2 hours or overnight.
6. Stir in chopped kimchi. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork and Cabbage Stew with Caraway Seeds
This classic Eastern European-inspired stew is a comforting blend of tender pork, sweet cabbage, and nutty caraway seeds. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork, then set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage, caraway seeds, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth and browned pork. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Tomato Basil Pork Stew with Parmesan Polenta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty and comforting stew, served alongside a creamy Parmesan polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown pork in batches, then set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
4. Add tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to pot; cover and transfer to oven. Simmer for 2 hours or until tender.
6. Meanwhile, bring water to boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta.
7. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10 minutes or until creamy. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve stew over polenta.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including oven time)
Pork and Pumpkin Stew with Sage
This comforting stew combines tender pork, roasted pumpkin, and aromatic sage for a deliciously flavorful fall dish. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove pork from pot; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and sage to pot. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add pumpkin cubes to pot; cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
6. Return pork to pot. Pour in chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bring stew to a boil, then transfer to preheated oven. Simmer, covered, for about 1 hour, or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Bourbon Glazed Pork Stew with Sweet Onions
Savor the rich flavors of tender pork and sweet onions in this indulgent stew, elevated by a tangy bourbon glaze. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large sweet onions, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Brown the pork cubes in batches, then set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the chicken broth, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 hearty pork stew recipes that are perfect for your slow cooker! From classic comfort food to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Recipes include Spicy Mexican Pork Stew with Black Beans and Corn, Creamy Garlic and Herb Pork Stew, Apple Cider Braised Pork Stew with Sweet Potatoes, and many more. Each recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting meal or something new and exciting, these pork stews are sure to hit the spot.