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Before we dive into the heart of our Cozy Fall Crockpot Pork and Apple Stew, one essential step deserves our attention: searing the pork. This initial step is crucial for flavor development. Searing the meat creates a beautiful caramelized crust on the outside, enhancing the overall taste of the stew.

Fall Crockpot Pork and Apple Stew

Embrace the cozy vibes of fall with this delicious Cozy Fall Crockpot Pork and Apple Stew. This recipe combines tender pork shoulder and sweet apples, creating a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly evenings. The slow cooking method ensures rich flavors meld beautifully, while the seasonal ingredients provide nutritional benefits. Serve it warm with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a delightful autumn dinner that your family will love!

Ingredients
  

2 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed and diced into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced

3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into coins

2 medium celery stalks, sliced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 bay leaf

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, but adds a delightful sweetness)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sear the Pork:

    - On medium-high heat, warm the olive oil in a large skillet.

      - Add the pork shoulder cubes in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each batch until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch.

        - Once browned, transfer the seared pork to the crockpot.

          Sauté the Aromatics:

            - In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.

              - Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and translucent.

                - Add this mixture to the crockpot with the browned pork pieces.

                  Combine Remaining Ingredients:

                    - Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot.

                      - Add the diced apples, sliced carrots, sliced celery, dried thyme, dried rosemary, ground cinnamon, bay leaf, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (if using).

                        - Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

                          Season the Stew:

                            - Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

                              - Stir again to ensure the seasonings are well distributed throughout the stew.

                                Cook the Stew:

                                  - Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.

                                    - The stew is ready when the pork is fork-tender and the flavors have beautifully melded together.

                                      Finish and Serve:

                                        - After cooking, carefully remove the bay leaf.

                                          - Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary.

                                            - Ladle the hearty stew into warm bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

                                              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 6-8

                                                - Presentation Tips: Serve the stew in deep bowls with crusty bread on the side for dipping. A sprig of fresh parsley on top adds a lovely touch of color.