Delicious Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

When the weather turns chilly and the leaves start to fall, nothing warms the heart quite like the aromatic symphony of Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes wafting through your home. Picture it: tender, juicy pork, lovingly slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy apple cider bath, perfectly complemented by creamy, mashed sweet potatoes that remind you of cozy family gatherings. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the soul, perfect for those crisp autumn evenings when all you want is to curl up with a big bowl of comfort.

Whether you’re whipping this up for an intimate dinner or a lively family feast, the rich flavors of apple cider and the added zest of sweet potatoes harmonize beautifully, conjuring memories of cozy dinners past and filling the room with warmth and laughter. It’s a meal that not only satiates hunger but also gathers everyone around the table, sharing stories and smiles. So, let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that promises to turn your kitchen into the coziest spot in your home!

Ingredients for Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes:

¼ cup Dijon mustard – Adds a beautiful tang and depth of flavor to the pork.

2 tablespoons brown sugar – Balances the mustard with a hint of sweetness.

3 garlic cloves, finely minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.

2 teaspoons paprika – Adds smokiness and color to the pork.

1 ¼ teaspoons fine salt – Necessary for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.

½ teaspoon black pepper – Offers a subtle kick of heat.

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances the dish with a warm, comforting flavor.

3 ½–4 lb boneless pork shoulder or pork butt – The star of the show, providing tender meat perfect for shredding.

¾ cup apple cider – Enriches the pork with a sweet, fruity flavor.

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Adds acidity and balances the sweetness of the cider.

2 small yellow onions, sliced (2 cups) – Caramelizes beautifully in the slow cooker, enhancing the flavor.

8 cups water – Used for cooking the sweet potatoes.

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into 2-inch pieces (~6 cups) – Creamy and sweet, perfect for mashing.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed sweet potatoes.

Fine salt to taste – Adjust seasoning in the sweet potatoes for perfection.

¼ cup apple cider vinegar – For the delicious apple slaw that complements the pork.

¼ cup avocado oil or olive oil – Adds healthy fats to the slaw and helps meld flavors.

1 ½ teaspoons pure maple syrup – Gives the slaw a subtle sweetness.

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Ties the slaw together with a zing.

1 garlic clove, finely minced – Adds extra flavor to the slaw.

¼ teaspoon fine salt, plus more to taste – Enhances the taste of the slaw.

Pinch of black pepper – A small touch to round out the flavors.

6 cups coleslaw mix – Adds crunch and a refreshing element to the dish.

1 large apple, thinly sliced or cut into matchsticks (~1 cup) – Brings natural sweetness and color to the slaw.

3 green onions, ends trimmed and thinly sliced (~½ cup) – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor to the slaw.

How to Make Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork
In a small bowl, stir together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and rub the mustard mixture all over it, ensuring every inch is covered in flavor.

Step 2: Set Up the Slow Cooker
In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, pour the apple cider and apple cider vinegar. Next, layer in the sliced onions, creating a flavorful base for the pork to rest on. Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions, fat cap facing up, to let that flavor through.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 8 to 9 hours. Don’t be surprised if your house begins to smell like a dreamy autumn day while the pork transforms into a succulent masterpiece.

Step 4: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
While your pork is cooking, fill a large pot with 8 cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the diced sweet potatoes. Lower the heat to medium and let them simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 5: Mash and Season
Remove the pot from heat and set aside ½ cup of the cooking liquid. Strain the sweet potatoes in a colander, return them to the pot, and add butter. Mash the sweet potatoes, adding reserved liquid as necessary until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste for that dreamy creaminess.

Step 6: Make the Apple Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the coleslaw mix, sliced apple, and green onions, tossing to coat everything in the delicious dressing. Pop it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while the pork finishes cooking.

When your pork is ready, shred it on a baking sheet, combining it with the onions and a little of the cooking liquid for extra flavor. To serve, divide the mashed sweet potatoes among bowls, top with the pulled pork and apple slaw, and if you’re feeling extra fancy, garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy the warm embrace of this perfect dish that brings everyone together!

Perfecting Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes Cooking Process

Start by seasoning and searing the pork first to maximize flavor. While the pork cooks in the slow cooker, prepare your sweet potatoes for mashing. Finish by mixing the ingredients for the apple slaw during the last stages of cooking to ensure freshness.

Add Your Touch to Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Feel free to customize this dish by swapping sweet potatoes for butternut squash or using different apple varieties for the slaw. You can also play with spices, adding nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a saucepan, adding a bit of water or broth to maintain moisture.

When I first made this Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes, my family couldn’t get enough! Their enthusiastic compliments made it my go-to dish for gatherings and weekends alike.

FAQs About Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

What is Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes?

Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes is a delectable dish that combines tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder infused with a rich blend of apple cider, Dijon mustard, and spices. This savory pork is then served over creamy mashed sweet potatoes, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. It’s a comforting meal ideal for family dinners or gatherings, showcasing a lovely balance of sweetness and savory goodness. With a fresh apple slaw on the side, this dish elevates any dining experience.

How do I prepare Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes?

To prepare Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes, start by seasoning and rubbing the pork with a mixture of Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and spices. Place the pork in a slow cooker with sliced onions and apple cider, then let it cook on low for 8 to 9 hours. While the pork cooks, you can boil and mash sweet potatoes with butter and salt. Finally, mix up a refreshing apple slaw to serve alongside the dish for a delightful crunch.

Can I customize the Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes?

Absolutely! Customizing Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes is as easy as swapping ingredients. For the mashed sweet potatoes, consider using butternut squash for a different taste. In the apple slaw, try adding different apple varieties or even chopped nuts for extra crunch. You can also experiment with spices; adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can give your dish an exciting twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.

How do I store leftovers of Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes?

To store leftovers of Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the pork seems dry, add a little water or broth while reheating to maintain moisture. This way, you can savor this delicious dish all over again!

Conclusion for Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

In conclusion, Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and comfort. The slow-cooked pork, complemented by creamy sweet potatoes and vibrant apple slaw, creates a delightful plate that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, allowing you to impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat. Try it for your next gathering, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Crockpot Apple Cider Pork Bowls

Delicious Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, blending savory pork and creamy sweet potatoes for a delightful experience.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 bowls

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 539

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Pork and Seasonings

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic finely minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 1/4 teaspoons fine salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 1/2–4 lb boneless pork shoulder or pork butt
• 3/4 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 small yellow onions sliced

Sweet Potatoes

• 8 cups water
• 4 medium sweet potatoes peeled, cut to 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Apple Slaw

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic finely minced
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt plus more to taste
• pinch black pepper
• 6 cups coleslaw mix
• 1 large apple thinly sliced or cut into matchsticks
• 3 green onions ends trimmed and thinly sliced

Equipment

• slow cooker
• large pot
• Colander
• mixing bowl

Method

 

Pork Preparation

1. In a small bowl, stir together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Pat the pork butt dry with paper towels and rub the mustard mixture on all sides of the pork.
3. In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, pour the apple cider vinegar. Add the sliced onions in a layer. Place the seasoned pork butt over top of the onions with the fat cap facing up.
4. Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8 to 9 hours.
5. When the cooking time is up, use a slotted spoon to remove the pork and onions to a rimmed baking sheet or large shallow bowl. Using two forks, shred the pork and onions, adding some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker as desired.

Sweet Potatoes Preparation

1. While the pork is cooking, place the 8 cups of water in a large pot over medium-high heat; bring to a boil.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and reduce the heat to medium to hold a simmer. Simmer, uncovered, until the potatoes are fork tender, about 18 to 20 minutes.
3. Remove the pot from the heat. Set aside 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid, then strain the potatoes in a colander. Return the tender sweet potatoes to the pot.
4. Add the butter and mash the potatoes, adding some of the reserved liquid back to achieve the desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Apple Slaw Preparation

1. While the pork is cooking, prepare the apple slaw. To a large mixing bowl, add the apple cider vinegar, oil, maple syrup, Dijon, minced garlic, salt, and pepper; whisk well to combine.
2. Add the coleslaw mix, sliced apple, and green onions, and toss to coat with the dressing. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serving

1. To serve, divide the mashed sweet potatoes among serving bowls. Top each with a serving of the pulled pork and apple slaw.
2. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 539kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 30gFat: 29gSodium: 1200mgFiber: 7gSugar: 19g

Notes

Customize this dish by swapping sweet potatoes for butternut squash or using different apple varieties for the slaw. Add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist.

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