Why the Crockpot Cuban Pork Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When I think about why the Crockpot Cuban Pork is a great recipe, I immediately appreciate its effortless preparation. You just toss the ingredients in, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
There’s no need for constant attention, making it perfect for busy days. The aroma that fills your kitchen is absolutely mouthwatering, and the tender, flavorful meat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or noodles, creating a comforting meal. It’s one of those recipes that makes me feel like a culinary rock star without the stress!
Ingredients of Crockpot Cuban Pork
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal with minimal fuss, the ingredients for Crockpot Cuban Pork are pretty straightforward and quite accessible. You don’t need a treasure trove of exotic spices or rare ingredients here. Instead, what you’ll find is a delightful mix of pantry staples and a few simple additions that come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone trying to impress family at dinner, these ingredients will have you covered.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1/3 cup flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste (a couple shakes each)
- 6 beef cube steaks (about 1 1/2 lbs.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion (or a bag of frozen chopped onion, if you’re feeling lazy like me)
- 3 cups water, divided
- 1 ounce brown gravy mix (1 envelope)
- 1 ounce mushroom gravy mix (1 envelope)
- 1 ounce onion gravy mix (1 envelope)
- Mashed potatoes or noodles (your choice for serving)
Now, a little heads up about the ingredients: If you’re anything like me, you might’ve a flair for improvisation in the kitchen. Feel free to swap out the beef cube steaks for another cut of beef if that’s what you have on hand—just keep in mind that cooking times may vary a bit.
And don’t stress if you don’t have fancy fresh onions; those frozen ones work like a charm and save you a good chunk of time. Plus, who doesn’t love a shortcut?
Just remember, the beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, so don’t overthink it. Stick to these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Crockpot Cuban Pork
Making Crockpot Cuban Pork is easier than pie, and I mean the kind that comes from the freezer section. Let’s dive right into it.
First, grab 1/3 cup flour, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper—just a couple shakes should do the trick. Now, toss in those 6 beef cube steaks (about 1 1/2 lbs.) one or two at a time into a resealable plastic bag. It’s like a little dance party for your meat. Shake it up until those steaks are completely coated and ready to strut their stuff.
Next, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’re going to want to brown those steaks lightly on each side, just enough to give them a bit of color and flavor. Once they’re all sizzled up, transfer them to your trusty slow cooker.
Now, take 1 large onion (or your frozen chopped onion if you’re short on time) and toss that in too. Pour in 2 cups of water, cover it up, and let it work its magic on low for about 8 hours. I know, it feels like forever, but you can just go about your day, and when you come back, your kitchen will smell divine.
After those 8 hours, it’s time for the grand finale. In a small bowl, whisk together the three gravy mixes—1 ounce each of brown, mushroom, and onion gravy mixes—with the remaining 1 cup of water until it’s nice and smooth.
Pour this glorious mixture into the slow cooker, give it a little stir, and let it cook for another 30 minutes. And there you have it! Serve this tender, flavorful pork over mashed potatoes or noodles, and watch everyone at the table go from hungry to happy in no time. You might just find yourself getting requests for this meal on repeat.
Crockpot Cuban Pork Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy Crockpot Cuban Pork while sticking to a low carb diet, there are some easy substitutions and variations you can try.
Instead of using flour for coating the beef, opt for almond flour or a low-carb breading mix. For the gravy, skip the traditional mixes and make a homemade version using beef broth, sautéed garlic, and herbs.
Serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of mashed potatoes or regular noodles. You can also add bell peppers and mushrooms to boost flavor and nutrients without adding carbs.
Enjoy your delicious, guilt-free meal!
What to Serve with Crockpot Cuban Pork
Serving Crockpot Cuban Pork can elevate your meal experience, and there are plenty of delicious options to contemplate.
I love serving it over creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up that rich gravy perfectly. Noodles are another great choice; they add a comforting touch.
For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad with citrus dressing, balancing the dish’s richness. Plantains, whether fried or baked, provide a delightful sweetness.
You can also pair it with black beans and rice for a traditional Cuban twist. Each option enhances the flavors, making your meal a satisfying experience.
Enjoy experimenting with these sides!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying Crockpot Cuban Pork, I often look for ways to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor. One simple trick is to use lean cuts of pork, like tenderloin, instead of fatty steaks.
I also swap out half the gravy mixes for low-sodium versions or make my own using herbs and spices. To cut calories further, I serve the pork over cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes.
Finally, I reduce the olive oil used for browning the meat or skip it altogether. These small changes let me enjoy my favorite dish while keeping it healthier.