Satchel's Savory and Sweet Recipe Collection

Ingredients

1.5 lbs of pork tenderloin
1 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup of soy sauce
1/4 cup of ketchup
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of cornstarch
2 tablespoons of water
Green onion and sesame seeds for garnish

Steps and instructions

Start by cutting the pork tenderloin into small, bite-sized pieces.
In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper.
Place the pork pieces in a slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over top. Stir to ensure that all pieces are coated.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before the pork is done, mix together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
Pour the slurry into the slow cooker and stir to mix it in. This will help to thicken the sauce.
Allow the pork to finish cooking, then serve it over rice or noodles, garnished with green onion and sesame seeds.

Tools for making

Cutting board - used for cutting the pork tenderloin into small pieces
Knife - needed to cut the pork tenderloin
Slow cooker - used for cooking the pork and allowing it to simmer in the sauce
Bowl - for mixing the sauce ingredients together
Small bowl - used for creating the cornstarch slurry
Stirring spoon - for stirring the sauce and ensuring the pork is coated

Recipe variations

Replace pork tenderloin with chicken breast or tofu for a meat-free option.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture.
Experiment with different sauces or marinades, such as teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce, to give the dish a different flavor profile.
Try using different types of sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, instead of brown sugar.
Add a spicy kick by including chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
For a healthier twist, use reduced-sodium soy sauce or substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Instead of using a slow cooker, cook the pork in the oven or on the stovetop using a skillet or grill.
Serve the pork over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
Experiment with different garnishes like cilantro, crushed peanuts, or sesame oil to enhance the dish.

Recipe overview

This tantalizing pork tenderloin recipe is both a treat for the taste buds and easy enough to put together on a busy day. The dish, which is slow-cooked to perfection, features the irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, thanks to the brown sugar and soy sauce. Tender pieces of pork are slow-cooked in a sumptuous sauce, with a hint of garlic and ginger that brings a nice amount of heat. The sauce is thickened towards the end of the cooking time with a cornstarch slurry, giving it a rich and velvety texture. Served over rice or noodles, this dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of sophistication. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

Common questions

Can I use a different cut of meat instead of pork tenderloin?
Yes, you can use other cuts of pork such as pork shoulder or pork chops. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of meat you choose.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply cook the pork in a large skillet or pot over medium heat until it is cooked through and tender. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer. It will still add flavor to the dish without the extra sodium.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the pork. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the pork ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated separately until you are ready to start cooking. You can also cook the pork ahead of time and reheat it when serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - for safely and efficiently cutting the pork tenderloin into small pieces
Knife - for slicing and dicing the pork tenderloin
Slow cooker - for cooking the pork tenderloin and allowing the flavors to meld together
Bowl - for mixing together the sauce ingredients
Measuring cups and spoons - for accurately measuring the ingredients
Small bowl - for creating the cornstarch slurry
Stirring spoon - for stirring the sauce and pork in the slow cooker
Rice or noodles - for serving the pork on
Garnish accessories - such as green onion and sesame seeds, for adding color and flavor to the dish

Origin stories

This saucy, slow-cooked pork recipe takes its inspiration from the world of Asian cuisine, where slow cooking methods have been used for centuries to tenderize meat and deepen flavors. Interestingly, soy sauce, a key ingredient in this recipe, has a history dating back over 2000 years, and was originally a way to stretch salt, a luxurious and expensive commodity. The addition of brown sugar nods to teriyaki, a cooking technique used in Japanese cuisine where foods are broiled or grilled with a glaze of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. For those savoring each bite, consider this: you're partaking in a culinary tradition that has stood the test of time, from ancient preservation techniques to modern day slow cookers.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.