Dive into the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine with our Slow Cooker Pork and Gandules Pigeon! This mouthwatering dish combines tender pork shoulder with the hearty goodness of gandules (pigeon peas), creating a comforting meal that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the magic. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s not only delicious but also rich in tradition and flavor. Click to discover the secrets behind this culinary delight!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cubed
- 1 can gandules (pigeon peas), drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cut the pork shoulder into 1-inch cubes and set aside. Chop the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed pork shoulder with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Mix well to ensure the vegetables are evenly distributed among the pork.
- Add the drained gandules (pigeon peas) to the bowl with the pork and vegetables. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Season the mixture with oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, ensuring that the spices are evenly mixed throughout the pork and vegetable mixture.
- Transfer the seasoned pork and vegetable mixture into the slow cooker. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, ensuring that the liquid covers the ingredients to help them cook evenly.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat and cover with the lid. Allow the dish to cook for approximately 6 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the lid and check the seasoning. Add additional salt and pepper if needed, and stir the mixture gently to combine.
- Serve the Slow Cooker Pork and Gandules Pigeon hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs well with rice or warm tortillas.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, use a well-marbled pork shoulder. The fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy days, chop your vegetables and cube the pork the night before. Store them in the refrigerator, so they’re ready to go when you need them.
- Layering Flavors: Don’t skip the seasoning step! Make sure to coat the pork and vegetables evenly with the spices to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or warm tortillas. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or avocado for an extra burst of flavor.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they make a fantastic filling for tacos or burritos the next day, ensuring that none of this delicious dish goes to waste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
