Healthy version, copycat, sweet pork

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 2–3 lb pork tenderloin (leaner than shoulder)

• ½ cup 100% pineapple juice (or reduced-sugar apple juice)

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Healthier Sweet Sauce:

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed pineapple

• 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup (instead of brown sugar)

• ½ cup tomato sauce (instead of enchilada sauce)

• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (no added sugar)

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

• Optional: pinch of cayenne or 1 chipotle pepper for smoky/spicy flavor

    Instructions

  1. Cook the Pork:

    • Place pork tenderloin in a slow cooker.

    • Add pineapple juice, chicken broth, and seasonings.

    • Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily.

  2. Shred the Pork:

    • Remove the pork and shred with two forks.

    • Pour off most of the liquid, leaving about ¼–½ cup.

  3. Make the Sauce:

• Blend applesauce, honey, tomato sauce, green chiles, vinegar, and optional chipotle.

• Pour over the shredded pork and mix well.

• Cook for another 30 minutes on low, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions (Healthier Style):

• Serve over cauliflower rice or brown rice.

• Add black beans, shredded lettuce, fresh pico de gallo, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

• For a wrap, use whole wheat tortillas or lettuce cups.

Course🍽️Main Course

Diets🌾Gluten-free🥩Carnivore...

Category🐖Pork

Cuisine🇺🇸American

Occasions📆Everyday👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Family Meal

Season🔁Year-round

DifficultyEasy ⏰ 2h

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