Slow Cooker Sticky Garlic Pork Bites
Description
These slow cooker sticky garlic pork bites are irresistibly tender, juicy, and coated in a rich, caramelized glaze. Slow-cooked to perfection, each bite is packed with bold garlic flavor and a sweet-savory sauce that melts in your mouth. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or served over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork belly (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ginger (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions
- Season pork pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- (Optional) Sear pork in a pan with olive oil for extra flavor.
- Add pork to the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, vinegar, and ginger.
- Pour sauce over pork.
- Cover and cook:
- Low: 6–7 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
- In the last 30 minutes, stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce.
- Stir well until pork is coated in thick, sticky glaze.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Pork shoulder becomes extra tender after slow cooking.
- Sauce thickens as it cools slightly.
- You can adjust sweetness by reducing sugar or honey.
Tips
- Broil for 3–5 minutes after cooking for crispy edges.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions.
Servings
Serves: 4–6 people
Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)
- Calories: 350–450
- Protein: 25–30g
- Fat: 18–25g
- Carbohydrates: 15–20g
- Sodium: 700–900mg
Benefits
- High protein for energy and muscle support
- Rich, satisfying flavor for small portions
- Great for meal prep
- Simple slow cooker recipe
- Customizable sweetness & spice level
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken instead?
Yes! Chicken thighs work great with the same sauce.
Q: Can I make it less salty?
Use low-sodium soy sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Q: Can I cook it faster?
Use high setting, but low gives more tender results.
Q: What can I serve it with?
Rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or even tacos.
