Slow Cooker Sweet Pork (Costa Vida or Cafe Rio Copycat)
If you have ever dined at Costa Vida or Cafe Rio, you know that their sweet pork is an absolute game-changer. Tender, flavorful, and packed with that famous sweet and tangy taste, it is no wonder that people all over the country are obsessed with it. Well, today I am going to share with you a copycat recipe for that delicious Slow Cooker Sweet Pork, so you can recreate that amazing flavor right at home.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound pork shoulder roast
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup cola
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cola, salsa, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Place the pork shoulder roast in a slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over it.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low to allow the flavors to meld.
Now that your Sweet Pork is ready, it’s time to enjoy it in your favorite dishes. You can use this pork to make mouth-watering tacos, burritos, salads, nachos, or even as a topping for your favorite pizza. The possibilities are endless!
How to Prepare:
Preparing this Slow Cooker Sweet Pork is incredibly easy. Simply follow the step-by-step instructions above, and you’ll have a delicious batch of sweet and tangy pork in no time. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a gathering with friends and family.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this recipe is minimal. It only takes about 15 minutes to mix the sauce ingredients and get the pork shoulder roast into the slow cooker. After that, all you need to do is let the slow cooker do its magic while you focus on other tasks or relax.
Servings:
This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, depending on the size of your pork shoulder roast and how you choose to serve it. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
Nutrition Facts:
While this Slow Cooker Sweet Pork is incredibly flavorful, it is worth noting that it is also a rich and indulgent dish. Here is a general breakdown of the nutrition facts per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 29g
Remember to enjoy this delicious pork in moderation and balance it with plenty of fresh vegetables and whole grains for a well-rounded meal.
Tips:
Here are some tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Sweet Pork turns out perfectly every time:
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder roast before cooking. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
- For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the pork shoulder roast in the sauce mixture for 2-3 hours before cooking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat even more.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer-term storage.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
A: While we highly recommend using a pork shoulder roast for the best results, you can also use pork butt or even boneless country-style ribs.
Q: What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
A: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can still make this recipe in the oven. Simply place the pork and sauce mixture in a covered baking dish and cook at 325°F for about 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely! In fact, the flavors of this Slow Cooker Sweet Pork deepen and improve when it is allowed to rest in the refrigerator overnight. Simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you check the labels of the salsa and cola to ensure they do not contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
Now that you have the secret recipe for Slow Cooker Sweet Pork, you can enjoy the flavors of Costa Vida or Cafe Rio right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a Mexican-themed dinner party or simply craving some delicious and tender pork, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to indulge in a mouth-watering meal that will transport you to your favorite Mexican restaurant!
