Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this Crock Pot Pork Chops and Sauerkraut recipe! This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. Tender, juicy pork chops simmered in a tangy sauerkraut broth – it's a delicious and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking with this simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (26 ounce) jar sauerkraut, drained
- 1 (12 ounce) can apple juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended):
For extra flavor and a beautiful browned crust, start by searing the pork chops. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Sear each chop for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step is optional, but highly recommended for a more flavorful final dish.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Place the seared (or unseared) pork chops in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Pour the drained sauerkraut over the onions and garlic. In a bowl, whisk together the apple juice, chicken broth, caraway seeds, and thyme. Pour this mixture over the sauerkraut.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and easily fork-shredded. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pork chops are cooked through, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish is perfect served with a side of mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: This recipe works well with both bone-in and boneless pork chops. Bone-in chops will take a little longer to cook and will result in a richer flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add Some Sweetness: A tablespoon or two of brown sugar or maple syrup can balance the tartness of the sauerkraut.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or apples to the slow cooker.
- Make it a Meal Prep Winner: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Prepare it on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Crock Pot Pork Chops and Sauerkraut recipe is a simple, delicious, and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food. The slow cooking method ensures tender, flavorful pork chops every time, making this a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Enjoy this easy recipe and explore the endless possibilities of homemade cooking!