Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
Step-by-step instructions:
a. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
b. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork chops.
c. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
d. In a slow cooker, mix together applesauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
e. Place the seared pork chops on top of the applesauce mixture in the slow cooker.
f. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
g. Serve the pork chops with the applesauce on top.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
5. Temperature:
- Low or high setting on the slow cooker
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Sugar: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork chops can be substituted with boneless pork loin or tenderloin.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth or water.
Variations:
- Add sliced apples to the slow cooker for extra apple flavor.
- Use cinnamon instead of cayenne pepper for a sweeter taste.
- Add chopped carrots and celery to the slow cooker for a complete meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Searing the pork chops before adding them to the slow cooker adds extra flavor and texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
- If the applesauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover pork chops and applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pork chops and applesauce in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pork chops on a bed of mashed sweet potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top of the pork chops for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork chops are tough, they may not have cooked long enough. Cook for an additional hour or until tender.
Food safety advice:
- Always wash your hands and surfaces before and after handling raw meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
Food history:
- Pork chops with applesauce is a classic American dish that dates back to the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
- The pork chops are seasoned with a blend of spices that add a savory and slightly spicy flavor. The applesauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pork chops with a side of applesauce and a glass of white wine.
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Taste: Savory, Sweet, Tangy, Apple, Apple-Flavored