Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Loin

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
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This Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Loin is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with a hint of autumn in every bite. It's an easy and comforting dish that fills your home with a delightful aroma while it cooks.

Ingredients for Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Loin

Pork loin is the star of this dish, providing a tender and juicy base. Apple cider adds sweetness and moisture, while apple cider vinegar balances the flavors with a tangy kick. Brown sugar enhances the sweetness, creating a delicious glaze. The Dijon mustard introduces a slight sharpness that complements the cider. For seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper bring depth and savoriness. Olive oil helps sear the meat, adding a touch of richness. Onion and garlic provide an aromatic base, while apples add a fruity contrast, soaking up all the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a richer flavor, try using hard apple cider instead of regular apple cider.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pork and reduce the liquid on the stove.
  • Don't skip searing the pork; it adds a depth of flavor that's worth the extra step.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a rustic bread to mop up the juices. A side of roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad also complements the flavors well. For a cozy drink pairing, a glass of chilled cider or a light white wine would be perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, pork shoulder works well, but adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to become tender.
Can I make this in the oven?
Sure! Sear the pork and then bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 3-4 hours, covered, until tender.

Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Loin Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pork loin in the skillet and sear it on all sides until it gets that beautiful golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely texture. Once seared, transfer the pork to your slow cooker.

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This will release a wonderful aroma and build the base of your flavors. Next, pour in the apple cider vinegar, and stir in the brown sugar and Dijon mustard. Stir everything well, making sure the sugar dissolves and the ingredients combine into a smooth mixture.

Pour this cider mixture over the pork loin in the slow cooker, making sure it's well covered. Arrange the sliced apples around the pork. These will cook alongside the meat, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Set your slow cooker to low and let the pork cook for 6-8 hours. You'll know it's done when the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is as juicy as it can be.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless: Just a quick sear and into the slow cooker it goes.
  • Flavor-packed: The apple cider and vinegar make the pork juicy and flavorful.
  • Perfect for fall: Apples and cider bring a cozy seasonal touch.
  • Great for gatherings: It serves a crowd with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

4 lbs pork loin
2 cups apple cider
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 apples, cored and sliced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent. Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard, stirring well to combine.
3. Pour the apple cider mixture over the pork loin in the slow cooker. Add sliced apples around the pork.
4. Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and cooked through.
5. Before serving, remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve with the cooked apples and onions.

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