Slow Cooker Amish Sweet and Sour Pork Chops

Introduction

Slow Cooker Amish Sweet and Sour Pork Chops are a comforting, family-style meal that combines tender pork chops with a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauce. Inspired by traditional Amish home cooking, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and a slow cooker to create a flavorful dish with minimal effort. As the pork cooks low and slow, it becomes incredibly tender while soaking up the rich sauce, making it perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

1. Lightly season the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Place the sliced onion in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Arrange the pork chops over the onions.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce evenly over the pork chops.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
7. Remove the pork chops and keep them warm.
8. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water to create a slurry.
9. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
10. Return the pork chops to the slow cooker and spoon the thickened sauce over them before serving.

Description

This dish features juicy, slow-cooked pork chops coated in a glossy sweet-and-sour sauce that’s rich with tangy vinegar, sweet brown sugar, and savory Worcestershire and soy sauce. The onions soften into the sauce, adding extra depth of flavor. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed Sunday dinners.

Tips

• Brown the pork chops in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side before slow cooking for added flavor.
• Use thick-cut pork chops to help prevent overcooking.
• Taste the sauce before cooking and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference.
• Add chunks of carrots or bell peppers during the last 2 hours of cooking for extra vegetables.
• Serve with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, steamed rice, or buttered biscuits to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Pineapple Version: Add a cup of pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking for a fruity twist.
• Spicy Sweet and Sour: Stir in 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Apple Style: Add sliced apples for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with pork.
• Mushroom Addition: Include sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Honey Glazed: Replace half of the brown sugar with honey for a smoother sweetness.
• Vegetable-Packed: Add carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a complete one-pot meal.

Correction

For the best results, use pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick to keep them juicy during the long cooking time. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid frequently, as this releases heat and can increase the cooking time. If the sauce becomes too thick after adding the cornstarch, stir in a small amount of chicken broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency. Always ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before serving, followed by a 3-minute rest.

Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Amish Sweet and Sour Pork Chops are a delicious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make every bite comforting and satisfying. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, gather everyone around the table, and enjoy a hearty homemade meal!