Indulge in the cozy, comforting flavors of this Sweet Pork with Apples and Prunes Slow Cooker recipe, a perfect blend of savory and sweet that’s sure to impress. Tender pork shoulder is slow-cooked to perfection alongside caramelized onions, juicy apples, and naturally sweet prunes, creating a dish that’s rich with layers of flavor. A fragrant broth made with chicken stock, honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and thyme ties everything together, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth meal that’s both hearty and elegant. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a leisurely Sunday dinner. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or with crusty bread for a satisfying, soul-warming experience. Perfect for fall or any time you crave the comforting combination of sweet and savory!
Season the pork shoulder with salt and black pepper on all sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder for 2-3 minutes on each side until deeply browned. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
Add the sliced apples and pitted prunes to the slow cooker, spreading them evenly around the pork.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, apple cider vinegar, honey, ground cinnamon, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Pour this mixture over the pork and fruit in the slow cooker.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Shred the pork with a fork if desired, and stir everything to combine the flavors.
Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Calories |
3248 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 140.3 g | 180% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.1 g | 210% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 822 mg | 274% | |
| Sodium | 3146 mg | 137% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 261.4 g | 95% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.5 g | 109% | |
| Total Sugars | 170.8 g | ||
| Protein | 235.5 g | 471% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 441 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 14.3 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 5671 mg | 121% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.