This pressure cooker pork roast is a quick and tasty dinner option! Juicy meat and flavorful seasonings come together in no time, making it perfect for busy days.
What I love most? It basically cooks itself! Just season, set the timer, and wait for the delicious aroma to fill your kitchen. You won’t believe how tender it turns out!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for roasting as it’s well-marbled, which means it stays moist. If you can’t find pork shoulder, a pork loin can work, but it might not be as juicy. I personally prefer shoulder for its flavor!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for searing, but you can use any cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, consider using avocado oil instead.
Thyme: Dried thyme is handy, but fresh thyme can enhance the taste a lot. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or oregano are good alternatives. You could also skip herbs for a simpler taste.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth. If you want to keep it vegetarian or lower-sodium, use vegetable broth or water with a dash of soy sauce for a boost. I often make my own broth for extra flavor!
How Should I Sear the Pork for Maximum Flavor?
Searing the pork is essential for building flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pressure cooker is hot before adding oil. This helps to get a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if needed. This will ensure even browning.
- Let the pork sit undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. This allows a great crust to form, sealing in juices.
How to Make Pressure Cooker Pork Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lbs pork shoulder roast (boneless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 lb baby carrots
- 1 lb small potatoes (yellow or red), halved if large
Time Needed:
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 60 minutes to cook. Plus, you’ll want to let the roast rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at about an hour and 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Roast:
Begin by patting the pork roast dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear. Next, rub the pork all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Make sure it’s coated well for maximum flavor!
2. Sear the Pork:
Set your pressure cooker to the sauté function and let it heat up. Once hot, add the olive oil. Sear the pork roast on all sides until it’s browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is key for adding a deep, tasty flavor.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
After searing, carefully remove the roast from the pot and set it aside. Pour the chicken broth into the pressure cooker, using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom. These bits add great flavor to the dish!
4. Assemble Everything:
Place the trivet that came with your pressure cooker inside the pot. Put the seared pork roast on top of the trivet. Then, scatter the baby carrots and halved potatoes around the roast. This helps them cook evenly too!
5. Pressure Cook:
Lock the lid onto your pressure cooker and set it to high pressure for 60 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is set to sealing. It’s time to relax while the cooker does its magic!
6. Release the Pressure:
When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, carefully quick release any remaining pressure by moving the valve to venting. Be cautious of the steam!
7. Serve:
Once the pressure is released, carefully remove the roast and vegetables. Let the pork roast rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy! Then slice the pork and serve it alongside the carrots and potatoes for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful pressure cooker pork roast with veggies!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use pork loin or even a pork butt. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; pork loin might require a shorter cooking time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables! Broccoli, green beans, or even sweet potatoes can all be great additions. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. If you want, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to keep everything moist!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the roast and season it a day ahead. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This can deepen the flavors for an even tastier dish!
