Slow Cooker Amish Pork and Butter Beans
Introduction
Slow Cooker Amish Pork and Butter Beans is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Rich flavors combine with tender pork and creamy butter beans, creating a meal that is both satisfying and easy to make. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully throughout the day.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple, but it’s also a great way to feed a crowd with minimal effort. The slow cooker brings out the best in the pork, making it tender and flavorful. Butter beans add texture and a nutritious boost, making this a well-rounded dish. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy home-cooked food without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Slow Cooker Amish Pork and Butter Beans
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, butter beans, broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender.
- Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks, mix it with the beans and sauce, and serve hot.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Amish Pork and Butter Beans
Serve this dish hot, straight from the slow cooker. It pairs nicely with a side of cornbread or rice for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added flavor and presentation.
How to Store Slow Cooker Amish Pork and Butter Beans
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Amish Pork and Butter Beans
- For extra flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots when you add the beans and broth.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Searing the pork is an important step; it locks in juices and flavor.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using other types of beans such as navy beans or cannellini beans. Additionally, you could swap the pork shoulder for chicken thighs for a lighter option.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen pork shoulder?
Yes, you can use frozen pork shoulder. Just make sure to increase the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Is it necessary to sear the pork?
While it’s not mandatory, searing the pork adds depth of flavor and improves the overall taste of the dish.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and just plug in your slow cooker in the morning to have it ready by dinner time.
Slow Cooker Amish Pork and Butter Beans
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, butter beans, broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender.
- Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks, mix it with the beans and sauce, and serve hot.
