Home>Recipe>Smokey and Sweet Pork Recipe Made in the Instant Pot

Smokey and Sweet Pork Recipe Made in the Instant Pot Smokey and Sweet Pork Recipe Made in the Instant Pot

Recipe

Smokey and Sweet Pork Recipe Made in the Instant Pot

Written by: Emily Smith

Discover a delicious recipe for Smokey and Sweet Pork made in the Instant Pot. This easy and flavorful dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Try it today!

This smokey and sweet instant pot pork recipe is my go-to comfort food. Tender pork, smothered in a tangy-sweet sauce, it's perfect over rice or tucked into a sandwich. Pure bliss!

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for HomePressureCooking.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Who can resist the alluring blend of smoky and sweet? I certainly can't. Picture this: fork-tender pork shoulder soaked in rich barbecue sauce, a hint of honey sweetness cutting through the smoky tang. Let's not forget the soy sauce, adding that crucial umami element. All of this, cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot. Sounds delicious, doesn't it? Hold on to that thought because if you're craving a satisfying and flavourful meal, this smoky and sweet Instant Pot pork recipe is just right for you. Let's dive in!

Ingredients for Smokey and Sweet Instant Pot Pork

  • Pork shoulder: Tender and flavorful cut that becomes succulent when cooked, perfect for slow-cooking methods like this recipe.
  • Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the pork and sauce.
  • Garlic: Infuses a rich, aromatic flavor into the dish, complementing the sweetness of the honey and barbecue sauce.
  • Barbecue sauce: Provides a smoky, tangy flavor that coats the pork beautifully, adding a classic barbecue taste to the dish.
  • Honey: Balances the smoky and savory flavors with a touch of sweetness, creating a well-rounded and delicious sauce.
  • Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor and providing a rich complexity.
  • Smoked paprika: Infuses a deep, smoky flavor into the pork, adding a delicious complexity and enhancing the overall taste.
  • Chicken broth: Provides moisture and depth of flavor to the dish, creating a rich and savory base for the pork to cook in.

One interesting tip about this smokey and sweet instant pot pork recipe is that you can add a splash of apple cider vinegar before cooking to enhance the tanginess of the dish. It adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey and barbecue sauce.

Kitchen Tools Required

  • Instant Pot: Essential for pressure cooking the pork quickly, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
  • Knife: Needed to cut the pork shoulder into manageable chunks for even cooking and easy shredding later.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ:
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork loin or pork tenderloin as alternatives to pork shoulder. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is tender.
Can I substitute the barbecue sauce with something else?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the barbecue sauce with teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or even a homemade marinade of your choice.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the pork with cubed tofu or seitan. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the tofu or seitan is cooked through.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat to the dish, you can include a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.

Serves: 4 people

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Total time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Season the pork with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and brown the pork in batches. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
  4. Add the pork back to the pot and pour in the barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and chicken broth.
  5. Close the lid, set to high pressure for 30 minutes.
  6. Once done, do a quick release and shred the pork using two forks.
  7. Serve the pork over rice or in buns for sandwiches.

Nutritional value:

Per Serving in Calories: 450 kcal | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Protein: 30 g | Total Fat: 25 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5 g | Cholesterol: 90 mg | Sodium: 900 mg | Dietary Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 20 g | Calcium: 60 mg | Potassium: 600 mg | Iron: 3 mg | Vitamin A: 200 µg | Vitamin C: 10 mg

Tips for Making Ahead and Freezing

Make Ahead Instructions

  • Cook the pork according to the recipe instructions.
  • Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

  • Allow the pork to cool completely.
  • Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
  • Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Was this page helpful?