Indulge in a symphony of sweet and savory flavors with our Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops recipe. Perfectly seasoned pork chops, tender apples, and aromatic spices come together in a slow cooker for a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is a winner. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to elevate your dinner game with this irresistible dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Season Pork Chops: Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.
- Add Apples and Onions: Layer the sliced apples and onions over the pork chops in the slow cooker. Sprinkle minced garlic over the top.
- Pour Apple Cider: Pour apple cider over the pork chops, apples, and onions.
- Season: Sprinkle dried thyme and ground cinnamon over the contents of the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If desired, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Once the pork chops are cooked to perfection, serve them hot, spooning the apple cider sauce over the top.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Boneless Pork Chops: If you prefer boneless pork chops, feel free to use them in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chops may cook faster.
- Apple Varieties: Experiment with different apple varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for varying levels of sweetness and tartness in the dish.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or sage for extra flavor and aroma.
- Vegetable Addition: Include vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added texture and nutrients.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in? A: Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops.
Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps but bake the pork chops in a covered baking dish at 325°F (165°C) for 1.5-2 hours or until tender.
Q: Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider? A: While apple juice can be used as a substitute, apple cider provides a richer flavor and is preferred for this recipe.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of this recipe, use bone-in pork chops and replace the apple cider with chicken or beef broth. You can also omit the cornstarch or use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum to thicken the sauce.
Low-Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version, omit the apples and onions or use them sparingly. Focus on the savory flavors of the pork chops and spices for a satisfying low-carb meal.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game with minimal effort. With tender pork chops, sweet apples, and aromatic spices, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, seeking a low-carb option, or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes. So, grab your slow cooker and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this mouthwatering dish!
