Slow Cooker Sweet Ginger Pork Chops are a delicious and easy way to prepare a hearty meal with minimal effort. The combination of brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, and ginger creates a sweet and savory flavor profile that perfectly complements the tender pork chops. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for any time you want a comforting and flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless pork chops
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 cloves crushed garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, tomato sauce, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, ground ginger, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Season Pork Chops:
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place in Slow Cooker:
- Arrange the seasoned pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer, slightly overlapping if necessary.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
- Pour Sauce Over Pork Chops:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the pork chops, making sure each chop is well coated.
Step 4: Cook
- Set Slow Cooker:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and fully cooked when done.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate and Garnish:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the sauce from the slow cooker over the pork chops.
- Optional Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Thickness of Pork Chops: If your pork chops are particularly thick, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar based on your desired level of sweetness.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Variations
Add Vegetables
- Carrots and Potatoes: Add sliced carrots and potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete meal.
- Bell Peppers: Add sliced bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful addition.
Make it Spicy
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Make it Gluten-Free
- Tamari or Coconut Aminos: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
With Rice or Noodles
- Rice: Serve the pork chops over a bed of steamed white or brown rice.
- Noodles: Pair with egg noodles or ramen for a comforting meal.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a vegetable medley.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter side.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Q: How do I thicken the sauce? A: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up. Turn the slow cooker to high to help thicken the sauce.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the pork chops in the sauce overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook as directed.
Slow Cooker Sweet Ginger Pork Chops are a simple yet flavorful dish that will surely become a family favorite. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy tender, juicy pork chops with minimal effort. Experiment with different variations and serving suggestions to make this recipe your own. Enjoy!