SLOW COOKER PORK SHOULDER WITH ZESTY BASIL SAUCE

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Zesty Basil Sauce image

Provided by Anna Stockwell

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 20

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For the pork:
8 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons whole grain mustard
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons oregano leaves, finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 skinless, boneless pork shoulder roast, tied (Boston butt; about 6 pounds)
For the sauce:
1 large shallot, finely chopped
2 cups basil leaves, finely chopped
1 1/4 cups extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup oregano leaves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Special Equipment:
A (4-quart) slow cooker

Steps:

Cook the pork: Mix garlic, oil, mustard, brown sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika in a small bowl to form a paste. Rub all over pork, then transfer to a resealable plastic bag or slow cooker insert and chill overnight.
Place pork in slow cooker, cover, and cook on low until meat is fork-tender but not yet completely falling apart, 7 1/2-8 hours.
Meanwhile, make the sauce: Mix shallot, basil, oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt in an airtight container. Cover and let rest up to 3 hours at temperature or up to 2 days in refrigerator. Stir in lemon juice just before using.
Transfer pork to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes. Slice and transfer to a platter. Drizzle with sauce and serve with additional sauce alongside.
Do Ahead
Pork can be rubbed 2 days ahead; chill in an airtight container. Sauce, without lemon juice, can be made 2 days ahead; chill in an airtight container.