I'm all about this recipe – so chill to make and there's never anything left.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather round as we travel back to a simpler time with a dish that resonates deeply in my heart - the Slow Cooker Apple Cider Smothered Pork Chops. This recipe harnesses the sweet tang of apple cider, a beloved favorite in our community, especially during the harvest season. Back when I was a young girl, apple cider was not just a beverage; it was a cornerstone of our autumnal celebrations. This dish brings those traditions right into your kitchen, using the slow cooker to blend the flavors gently and create a meal that feels like a warm hug from the past.

These hearty pork chops are delightful when accompanied by a side of buttery, garlic mashed potatoes or a chunky apple sauce to complement the cider flavors. I also enjoy serving this with a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans for a lighter touch. And don’t forget, a nice chunk of crusty bread is just the thing to mop up that delicious sauce!

Servings: 4

4 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4 inch thick
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 apples, cored and sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups apple cider
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the pork chops for about 2 minutes on each side just to sear them.

Place the sliced onions and apples in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Layer the seared pork chops on top of the onions and apples.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, then pour in the apple cider and apple cider vinegar, bringing it to a simmer while scraping the bits off the bottom of the pan.

Add thyme and rosemary to the skillet, then pour the mixture over pork chops in the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.

Once done, remove the pork chops and tent with foil to keep warm. If desired, thicken the sauce remaining in the slow cooker by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stirring it into the juices, cooking on high until the sauce thickens.

For a twist on the traditional, you can add a splash of brandy or bourbon to the skillet when you add the cider for a deeper, woodsy flavor. If you're fond of a bit more spice, some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika in the cider mixture can add a nice warmth. And for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, a spoonful of brown sugar or maple syrup stirred into the cider can create a delightful glaze.