Slow Cooker Smoked Pork Shoulder and Anasazi Beans

Slow Cooker Smoked Pork Shoulder and Anasazi Beans

 

When the weather turns cold, nothing beats the comfort of a slow-cooked meal. This Smoked Pork Shoulder recipe is a classic dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and grandma's cooking. Featuring a Falls Brand smoked pork picnic and Zursun Idaho Heirloom Anasazi beans, this meal is a staple in Southern Idaho and perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, warming dinner.

The Perfect Comfort Food

This dish is designed for cold days when you want a meal that warms you from the inside out. While pinto beans or white beans are commonly used for ham and beans, this recipe utilizes Anasazi beans. These unique beans offer a distinct flavor and texture that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the pork.

Ingredients

  • Smoked Pork Shoulder Picnic (Falls Brand recommended)

  • Dry Anasazi Beans (Zursun recommended)

  • Chicken stock

  • Fresh thyme

  • Bay leaves

Preparation Guide

The key to this recipe is the "set it and forget it" method, but it does require a little preparation the night before.

  1. Soak the Beans: Place your dry beans in a container and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight. This process softens the beans and prepares them to absorb the cooking liquid.

  2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the soaked beans into your slow cooker. Pour in enough chicken stock to submerge the beans.

  3. Add the Meat and Herbs: Place the smoked pork shoulder into the center of the slow cooker. Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme and a couple of bay leaves to the liquid.

  4. Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8 hours.

  5. Serve: Once the meat is tender and falling off the bone, the dish is ready. This meal pairs exceptionally well with a side of homemade cornbread.

Why Use a Smoked Pork Shoulder

The smoked pork shoulder provides a deep, savory flavor that infuses the beans and the broth as it cooks. Unlike leaner cuts, the shoulder breaks down slowly, resulting in tender meat that shreds easily and thickens the broth naturally. This recipe is a simple way to bring a high-quality, chef-inspired meal to your table with minimal effort.

 

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