Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Then look no further! This Apple Pork Slow Cooker recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend afternoons. The tender, juicy pork, infused with the sweetness of apples and warm spices, is guaranteed to become a family favorite. This easy recipe delivers a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or homemade cooking at its best. Get ready to experience the best recipes for fall!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This step adds incredible depth of flavor. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned pork to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, apples, chicken broth, apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir gently to combine.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Apple Pork:
- Don't skip searing: Searing the pork before slow cooking creates a beautiful crust and enhances the overall flavor.
- Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties for varying levels of sweetness and tartness.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove some of the cooking liquid and simmer it on the stovetop until it reduces. Alternatively, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve it Up: This delicious dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Variations:
- Maple Apple Pork: Substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar for a richer, sweeter flavor.
- Cranberry Apple Pork: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the slow cooker for a festive twist.
- Spicy Apple Pork: Incorporate a few chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Apple Pork Slow Cooker recipe offers a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its ease of preparation and amazing flavor make it a true winner among easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes!