Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pork Chops

About This Recipe

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pork Chops is a dish where pork chops are cooked slowly with a glaze primarily consisting of brown sugar, resulting in a tender and flavorful meal. The slow cooking process is the defining method of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe utilizes a slow cooker, allowing for hands-off cooking and easy cleanup. The extended cooking time helps tenderize the pork chops and deeply infuses them with a sweet and savory flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Step by Step Instructions

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with black pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer the seared chops to the slow cooker.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and ground ginger until the sugar begins to dissolve.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. If a thicker glaze is desired, carefully remove the cooked pork chops from the slow cooker and set aside. Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Whisk the slurry into the simmering liquid and cook for 1-2 minutes, until thickened. Pour the thickened sauce over the pork chops before serving.

7. FAQ

   Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, boneless pork chops can be used. Adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.

   What is the purpose of searing the chops first? Searing creates a browned crust through the Maillard reaction, which adds depth of flavor to the final dish.

   Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?Yes, cooking on HIGH for 2-3 hours is an acceptable method, though low and slow cooking often yields more tender results.

   You Must Know

   Searing the pork chops before slow cooking is a recommended step for optimal flavor development. Using a meat thermometer to check for the USDA-recommended final internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is the most accurate way to determine doneness and avoid overcooking.

   Storage Tips

   Allow leftover pork chops to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered dish in the oven or in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the meat from drying out.

   Enjoy!