Welcome to a delicious culinary experience that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds! Today, we’re diving into the world of Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Chili, a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also brings a symphony of flavors to the table. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and cooking options of either 4 hours on high or 8 on low, you can set it and forget it!
What makes this chili truly special is the unique blend of spices and the addition of dark cocoa, which elevates the dish to new heights. This combination not only adds depth of flavor but also includes health benefits from its key ingredients. For instance, pork shoulder is an excellent source of protein, while beans contribute essential fiber. Moreover, with the use of fresh herbs and spices, you can enjoy a meal that’s not only tasty but also a bit healthier.
The Dish: Taste and Texture
This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Chili has a robust flavor profile thanks to the mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. The pork becomes incredibly tender as it cooks slowly, absorbing the rich flavors from the spices and the broth. The addition of beans adds a hearty texture, making this dish both filling and satisfying.
For those interested in customization, there are many variations to explore. You can swap out the beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version or even opt for a vegetarian option by using jackfruit instead of meat. The choice is yours!
Now, Let’s Get into the Recipe
Ingredients
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 T. dark cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1 T. chili powder
- 2 t. ground cumin
- ½ t. cayenne pepper
- 1 T. Mexican oregano
- Sea salt & black pepper, to taste
- 3-3½ lbs. pork shoulder roast, trimmed
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 4-oz. can mild green chilies
- 3 T. tomato paste
- 1 28-oz. can diced tomatoes
- 1 15-oz. can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15-oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 t. liquid smoke
- 1 c. chicken broth, preferably organic
Directions
- Combine garlic, cocoa powder, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and Mexican oregano in a small bowl. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and stir to combine.
- Rub pork roast with seasoning mixture on all sides and place in a slow cooker. Arrange remaining solid ingredients around the pork, then pour the liquid smoke and chicken broth on top.
- Cover and cook on high for 4 hours, or on low for 8 hours. Do not remove the lid while cooking.
- Once cooking is complete, gently pull the pork apart with two forks. Allow it to rest in the juices for 10-15 minutes for enhanced flavor absorption.
- Serve topped with shredded Mexican cheese, diced red onion, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
Give this Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Chili a try and discover how easy it is to make a comforting meal that brings family and friends together. Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below!
