Delicious Slow-Cooked Pork with Sauerkraut

5 stars
4.71 (11)
Delicious Slow-Cooked Pork with Sauerkraut
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
204 mins
Total Time:
224mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 17, 2023

Great Grandma's Pork and Sauerkraut is a classic American recipe that has been passed down through generations. This dish combines tender pork roast with tangy sauerkraut, creating a flavorful and comforting meal. It is traditionally served on New Year's Day for good luck and prosperity. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

  • 3-4 pounds pork roast
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 jar sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

Directions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the pork roast with salt and black pepper.
  3. Sear the pork roast in the skillet until browned on all sides.
  4. Transfer the pork roast to a slow cooker.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion and minced garlic until softened.
  6. Add the caraway seeds, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  7. Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker with the pork roast.
  8. Add the drained and rinsed sauerkraut to the slow cooker.
  9. Pour the chicken broth over the pork and sauerkraut.
  10. If desired, sprinkle brown sugar over the mixture for a touch of sweetness.
  11. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
  12. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  13. Serve the shredded pork and sauerkraut in a serving dish, spooning some of the cooking liquid over the top.
  14. Enjoy hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Interesting Facts

  • Sauerkraut is a traditional German fermented cabbage dish and became popular in America during the wave of German immigrants in the 19th century.
  • New Year's Day pork and sauerkraut tradition is believed to bring good luck and wealth for the upcoming year according to German and Pennsylvania Dutch folklore.