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Slow Cooker Spiced Pork Stew

This crockpot pork stew features tender chunks of pork shoulder simmered with aromatic spices, vegetables, and a rich broth. The slow cooking process yields a hearty, flavorful dish with melt-in-your-mouth meat and soft vegetables, finished with a fragrant, vibrant sauce. It’s a comforting meal with a surprising spice twist that adds warmth and depth.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds pork shoulder cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 3 large carrots peeled and sliced into thick rounds
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • 1 cinnamon stick cinnamon stick
  • 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce optional, as a substitute for tomato paste
  • fresh thyme sprigs or rosemary

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Gather all your tools: a skillet, a knife, a cutting board, and your slow cooker. Prepare your ingredients by chopping the pork into chunks and peeling and slicing the carrots. Dice the onion and crush the garlic.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil, and sear the pork chunks until they develop a golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step builds rich flavor and color for the stew.
  3. Place the seared pork into the slow cooker, then layer in the sliced carrots, diced onion, and crushed garlic. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and sprigs of thyme on top for aromatic depth.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure it covers the ingredients at least halfway. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce if using, to evenly distribute the flavors.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 4-5 hours. During this time, your kitchen will fill with a fragrant aroma of spices and slow-cooked pork.
  6. Once cooked, check that the pork is tender and easily shreddable, and the vegetables are soft. Remove the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and thyme sprigs before serving.
  7. Scoop the hearty stew into bowls, serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors with a warm, comforting texture.