Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day, greeted by the tantalizing aroma of a hearty stew simmering away in your crockpot. The "Crockpot Pork Apple Cider Stew" is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly evening, blending the rich flavors of tender pork shoulder with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. This delightful American dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, and with just 20 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection over 8 hours. Ready to discover a recipe that will have your guests begging for seconds? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, cubed
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into 1-inch cubes, ensuring even sizing for consistent cooking.
- Season the pork cubes generously with salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon, coating each piece thoroughly to enhance flavor absorption.
- Prepare vegetables by peeling and chopping the onion into medium-sized pieces, slicing carrots into half-inch rounds, and cubing potatoes into roughly one-inch chunks.
- Place seasoned pork cubes into the crockpot as the first layer, creating an even base.
- Add chopped onions, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes on top of the pork, distributing them evenly throughout the pot.
- Pour apple cider slowly over the meat and vegetables, ensuring complete coverage and moisture distribution.
- Cover crockpot and set to low heat setting, allowing the stew to cook slowly for 7-8 hours until pork becomes tender and vegetables are soft.
- After cooking time, carefully stir the stew and adjust seasoning if needed, adding additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, use a well-marbled pork shoulder, as the fat will render down during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and tender.
- Prep Ahead: If you're short on time, chop your vegetables and season the pork the night before. Store them in the fridge, so all you have to do in the morning is assemble everything in the crockpot.
- Layering Matters: Start with the pork as the base, followed by the vegetables. This helps the meat absorb the flavors of the cider and spices as it cooks.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter stew, feel free to add a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup to the apple cider before pouring it over the ingredients.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld and thickens the sauce slightly, enhancing the overall taste.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme just before serving adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your stew with crusty bread or a side salad to complete the meal and soak up every delicious drop of the stew.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
