Delicious & Easy Slow Cooker Korean Pulled Pork Tacos with Zesty Slaw
Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners with these incredible slow cooker Korean-inspired pork tacos! They are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and a hint of heat, all culminating in a truly delicious and surprisingly easy-to-make meal. Forget the fuss of complicated cooking; your slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting, leaving you with tender, flavorful pulled pork that’s perfect for a crowd or meal prep.
Drawing inspiration from the vibrant and complex flavors prevalent in Korean cuisine, these fusion tacos offer a fun and accessible way to bring gourmet “food truck eats” right into your home kitchen. We recently added them to our regular menu rotation, and they’ve quickly become a unanimous family favorite! The unique combination of succulent pulled pork and a crisp, fresh slaw creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The star of the show, the pulled pork, is cooked slowly to perfection. It bathes in a rich marinade crafted from brown sugar, tangy soy sauce, aromatic red onion, a kick of jalapeño, fresh ginger, garlic, a touch of rice vinegar, and a hint of nutty sesame oil. This slow cooking process ensures the pork becomes incredibly tender, falling apart with just a fork, and thoroughly infused with these complex, well-balanced flavors. You’ll notice a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory notes, while the jalapeño provides a gentle warmth without overwhelming the palate. To top it all off, the crunchy lime cabbage slaw offers a fantastic textural contrast and a burst of fresh, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the pork, making each bite an absolute delight. This harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and fresh textures is truly what elevates these Korean pulled pork tacos to an unforgettable culinary experience!
Table of Contents
- How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Pork Tacos
- Why Searing Meat Before Slow Cooking Matters
- More Ways to Enjoy This Delicious Pulled Pork
- Other Must-Try Slow Cooker Recipes
- Slow Cooker Korean Pork Tacos Recipe
How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Pork Tacos
Don’t let the seemingly extensive ingredient list deter you! While it might appear daunting at first glance, the process of bringing these amazing Korean pork tacos together is surprisingly straightforward, especially with the magic of the slow cooker. Most of the work involves simple chopping and mixing, and the hands-on time is minimal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that much of the prep work can even be done ahead of time, ensuring dinner is truly a breeze, even on your busiest evenings.
- Prepare the Flavorful Pork Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, freshly grated ginger, and sesame seeds. Whisk everything together until well combined and the sugar has dissolved. This creates a vibrant, balanced marinade that will infuse the pork with incredible depth of flavor.
- Optional (But Recommended!) Searing of the Pork: Season your pork loin or butt/shoulder roast generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (a cast iron skillet works wonderfully here) over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil until shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned pork in the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. This crucial step, though optional, significantly enhances the depth of flavor in your final dish.
- Slow Cooker Time: Transfer the seared pork (or unseared, if skipping the searing step) to your slow cooker. Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture evenly over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Scatter the whole garlic cloves around the pork. Secure the lid tightly and cook on low heat for approximately 7 hours, or on high heat for about 4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds apart.
- Shred and Reduce the Pork: Once the pork is cooked through and tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board or in a large bowl. Using two forks, begin to shred the pork into large, manageable pieces. Return the partially shredded pork back into the slow cooker, stirring it into the flavorful cooking liquid. Continue to cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes on high. This allows some of the liquid to reduce and thicken, concentrating the delicious flavors and ensuring the pork is perfectly moist and coated. Finish shredding the pork completely after this step.
- Craft the Zesty Slaw and Other Taco Toppings: While the pork is finishing, prepare your vibrant slaw. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, sesame oil, olive oil, lime juice, freshly grated ginger, and salt until smooth. In a separate large bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, chopped scallions, and fresh cilantro. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are well combined and coated. Prepare any other desired taco toppings such as extra cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
- Assemble Your Perfect Tacos: Lightly toast your corn or flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side until warmed and pliable. Fill each warm tortilla with a generous helping of the succulent shredded Korean pulled pork. Top with a spoonful of the fresh, crunchy lime cabbage slaw. For an extra flourish and burst of freshness, garnish with additional chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice from a lime wedge.
And there you have it – your absolutely delicious and easy Slow Cooker Korean Pulled Pork Tacos are ready to be savored!
Why Searing Meat Before Slow Cooking Matters
While searing your meat before it goes into the slow cooker is technically an optional step, I cannot recommend it enough. It’s a small extra effort that yields a remarkably significant payoff in terms of flavor and texture. “Searing” simply refers to the process of cooking the surface of the meat at a high temperature over dry heat until a beautiful, deep brown, caramelized crust forms. This browning is due to the Maillard reaction – a complex chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that occurs when food is heated. This reaction creates hundreds of new flavor compounds, resulting in a rich, savory depth that simply cannot be achieved otherwise.
Think of it this way: brown food equals more flavorful food! Searing the pork first injects an incredible layer of complexity and savory notes into your slow cooker dish. It locks in juices and creates a more appealing texture on the exterior of the meat. Without searing, the meat might cook through perfectly but would lack that foundational umami and robust flavor profile that makes this recipe truly outstanding. It only takes a few extra minutes, but the difference it makes to the final taste and aroma of your Korean pulled pork is truly transformative.
For searing, a heavy-bottomed pan like a cast iron skillet is my top choice because it retains heat exceptionally well, ensuring an even and consistent sear. However, if you have a modern slow cooker that also boasts a sauté function (like many Instant Pot models that combine slow cooking with pressure cooking and sautéing capabilities), that’s an even better option! It allows you to sear the meat directly in the same pot you’ll slow cook in, minimizing cleanup and streamlining the process. Less dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your delicious meal!
More Ways to Enjoy This Delicious Pulled Pork!
One of the fantastic advantages of this recipe is that it produces a generous batch of flavorful pulled pork. This is absolutely ideal for enjoying the delicious tacos one night and then having plenty left over for various other meals, or even freezing portions for a quick and convenient dinner solution on another busy evening. The versatility of this Korean pulled pork is truly remarkable! If you’re looking to switch things up beyond traditional tacos, here are a few creative and equally delicious ways to enjoy your slow cooker masterpiece:
- Pork Grain Bowls: Create wholesome and satisfying grain bowls by serving the pulled pork over a bed of your favorite grain – think fluffy white rice, nutty brown rice, ancient quinoa, or even farro. Top it generously with the crunchy cabbage slaw, sliced avocado for creamy richness, extra fresh cilantro, and perhaps a drizzle of sriracha mayo or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For an authentic Korean twist, consider adding some kimchi or quick-pickled radishes.
- Savory Pork Sliders: Transform your pulled pork into delightful sliders perfect for appetizers or a casual meal. Pile the succulent pork high on soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls or mini brioche buns. Add a dollop of the refreshing cabbage slaw for crunch and tang. You could also introduce a slice of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, or a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Korean BBQ Inspired Sandwiches: Take your sandwich game to the next level. Load the pulled pork into crusty French bread or a soft ciabatta roll. Beyond the slaw, consider adding fresh cucumber slices, pickled carrots, or even a spicy aioli to elevate the flavors.
- Fusion Quesadillas or Wraps: Give your pulled pork a Mexican-Korean fusion twist! Spread the pork evenly over a tortilla, sprinkle with some shredded cheese (like mozzarella or a Mexican blend), and maybe a bit of the slaw before folding and toasting until golden and crispy. Serve with a side of salsa or sour cream.
- Noodle or Rice Stir-Fries: Incorporate the pulled pork into a quick stir-fry. Sauté some vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, then toss in the pulled pork and your favorite Asian noodles or rice with a light soy-ginger sauce for a complete meal.
- Hearty Salads: For a lighter option, use the pulled pork as a protein-packed topping for a vibrant green salad. Pair it with crisp lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, and a sesame-ginger vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Other Must-Try Slow Cooker Recipes
The slow cooker is an absolute lifesaver for creating delicious, tender meals with minimal effort. If you love the convenience and amazing results of slow cooking, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic recipes to add to your rotation. They are perfect for busy weeknights and offer comforting flavors that everyone will enjoy.
- Slow Cooker Pot Roast: A classic, comforting meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Slow Cooker Rosemary Balsamic Pork Roast: An elegant yet simple pork dish with rich flavors.
- Spaghetti and Meatballs (with a slow cooker option): Enjoy a hearty Italian favorite made easy.
- Easy Shredded Cooked Chicken (Slow Cooker, Instant Pot and Stovetop): A versatile ingredient for countless meals, prepared with ultimate convenience.
Slow Cooker Korean Pork Tacos Recipe
Slow Cooker Korean Pork Tacos
12
servings
15 minutes
7 hours
30 minutes
7 hours
45 minutes
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Ingredients
For the Pulled Pork:
- ½ cup light or dark brown sugar
- ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium can be used for dietary preferences)
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 2 jalapeño peppers , finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted for enhanced flavor)
- 3 lbs pork loin or butt/shoulder roast (pork shoulder/butt offers richer flavor and tenderness)
- Salt and pepper , to taste (for searing)
- 5 whole garlic cloves (peeled)
For the Zesty Slaw:
- 1 tablespoon light or dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (toasted for richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or other neutral oil)
- Juice of half a lime (freshly squeezed for best results)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage (for color and crunch)
- 4 scallions , chopped (green onions)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
For Assembling the Tacos:
- Corn or flour tortillas (small street taco size is ideal)
- Shredded pulled pork (from recipe above)
- Slaw (from recipe above)
- Cilantro , chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges , optional (for serving)
Instructions
To Make the Pulled Pork:
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In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, diced red onion, finely chopped jalapeño, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Whisk well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Set aside.
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(Optional but highly recommended step for enhanced flavor and texture) Sprinkle the pork roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pan (like a cast iron skillet) over medium-high heat with a little oil. Brown the pork on all or most sides, searing for about 3-4 minutes per side until a rich, dark crust forms.
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Place the seared pork (or unseared, if skipping) into your slow cooker. Pour the prepared soy sauce marinade mixture evenly over the top of the pork. Add the whole garlic cloves around the pork in the slow cooker.
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Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 7 hours, or on the high setting for 4 hours. The pork should be incredibly tender and easily shredded with a fork at this point.
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Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it slightly into large chunks using two forks. Return these large pieces of pork to the slow cooker, stirring them into the cooking liquid. Continue to cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes on high to allow some of the liquid to reduce and thicken, intensifying the flavors.
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Once cooking is complete, fully shred the pork to your desired consistency. It’s now ready to be used immediately for tacos or stored for future meals. It will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To Make the Zesty Slaw:
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In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, sesame oil, olive oil, fresh lime juice, grated ginger, and salt until smooth and thoroughly combined. This forms the dressing for your vibrant slaw.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, chopped scallions, and fresh cilantro. Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
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For best results, serve the slaw immediately after preparing to maintain its crisp texture. The slaw does not keep well for extended periods, so plan to make it just before serving.
To Serve the Tacos:
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If desired, gently warm your corn or flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-30 seconds per side, until they are soft and pliable. This improves their flavor and texture.
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Assemble your tacos by filling each warmed tortilla with a generous portion of the shredded Korean pulled pork. Top with a spoonful of the refreshing zesty slaw. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice from a lime wedge for an added burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Notes
- Batch Cooking & Freezing: This recipe yields a substantial amount of delicious pulled pork, making it ideal for meal prepping! You can easily enjoy half of it for tacos one night and portion out the remainder. Stash half of the cooked, shredded pork in an airtight container in the freezer for a quick and convenient meal solution on another busy evening. Simply thaw and reheat.
- Adjusting the Spice Level: Depending on the natural heat of your jalapeños, this recipe typically produces a mild to medium spicy pulled pork. If you prefer a bolder, spicier kick, feel free to enhance the heat. Before adding the pork to the slow cooker, stir in an additional 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha hot sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a more authentic flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the soy sauce marinade mixture. Taste and adjust to your preferred level of heat.
- Alternative Cuts of Pork: While pork loin or shoulder/butt are recommended, you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just be mindful that leaner cuts may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked, so monitor cooking times closely.
- Slaw Longevity: The lime cabbage slaw is best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made to ensure maximum crunch and flavor. If you anticipate leftovers, store the dressing and the shredded cabbage mixture separately and combine just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Beyond tacos, this pulled pork is fantastic in rice bowls, sliders, sandwiches, or even as a topping for loaded fries or nachos for a unique fusion twist.
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