Introduction: Craving a Sweet and Savory Pork Dish That’s Effortless?
Ever wanted to serve tender, juicy pork chops with a delightful peachy twist without spending hours in the kitchen? Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops are the perfect recipe! This slow-cooker dish combines bone-in pork chops with a sweet and tangy peach-tomato sauce, infused with herbs and a hint of spice. Ideal for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort, it’s a flavorful, comforting meal. Ready to make a healthy, delicious dish that’s sure to please? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Overview: Why Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops are Special
Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops are a unique blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker for hands-off convenience. Here’s why they’re so special:
- Time Requirement: About 10 minutes prep, 5 hours cooking on Low, for a total of around 5 hours 10 minutes (mostly hands-off).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a low-effort, high-flavor meal.
- Why It’s Unique: The combination of peaches, tomato sauce, and herbs creates a rich, balanced sauce that complements the pork’s natural flavor. The slow cooker ensures tender, fall-apart chops, while the light syrup and reduced-sodium soy sauce keep it healthier without sacrificing taste.
This recipe is healthy (high in protein, low in fat), quick to prep, and versatile for pairing with your favorite sides. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe serves 2 and uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful, comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in center-cut pork loin chops (7 ounces each)
- 2 teaspoons canola oil
- For the Sauce:
- 1 can (8-1/4 ounces) sliced peaches in extra-light syrup
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon dried basil
- Dash to 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Pork Chops: Bone-in center-cut chops are juicy and flavorful, with the bone adding depth during slow cooking.
- Canola Oil: Used for browning, adding a light crispness to the chops.
- Sliced Peaches in Extra-Light Syrup: Provide sweet, fruity flavor with less sugar than regular syrup.
- Tomato Sauce: Adds a savory, slightly tangy base for the sauce.
- Water: Thins the sauce for proper slow cooking.
- Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce: Brings umami depth without too much salt.
- Rosemary, Thyme, Basil: Contribute earthy, aromatic notes to balance the sweetness.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds a subtle or moderate kick, depending on your preference.
Substitutions and Variations
- Pork Chops: Swap with boneless pork chops (reduce cooking time to 4-4.5 hours) or bone-in pork shoulder chops.
- Peaches: Use fresh peaches (peeled and sliced, about 1 cup) or peaches in water or juice for even less sugar.
- Tomato Sauce: Substitute with crushed tomatoes or a mild salsa for a different twist.
- Soy Sauce: Replace with tamari (gluten-free) or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
- Herbs: Use fresh herbs (1/2 teaspoon each, minced) or an Italian herb blend.
- Cayenne: Skip for no heat or increase to 1/4 teaspoon for a spicier sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Low-Sodium: Omit soy sauce and use low-sodium tomato sauce.
- Veggie Add-On: Add sliced onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops is simple, with the slow cooker doing most of the work. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Pat 2 bone-in pork chops (7 ounces each) dry with paper towels.
- Open 1 can (8-1/4 ounces) sliced peaches in extra-light syrup, reserving the juice.
- Measure 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1/8 teaspoon each of dried rosemary, thyme, and basil, and a dash to 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Tip: Drying the chops helps them brown evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops
- Heat Oil: In a small skillet, heat 2 teaspoons canola oil over medium heat.
- Brown Chops: Add pork chops and brown for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer: Place browned chops in a 1-1/2-quart slow cooker.
Tip: Browning adds flavor but can be skipped if short on time; place raw chops directly in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Drain Peaches: Drain peaches, reserving the juice in a bowl.
- Mix Sauce: In the same bowl, combine reserved peach juice, 1 can tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1/8 teaspoon each of rosemary, thyme, and basil, and a dash to 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Stir well.
Tip: Adjust cayenne to your spice preference for a custom heat level.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
- Add Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
- Top with Peaches: Arrange the drained peach slices on top of the chops.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 5 hours, until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for medium or 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
Tip: Check at 4.5 hours; smaller chops may cook faster.
Step 5: Serve
- Carefully remove pork chops and peaches from the slow cooker. Spoon sauce over the chops and serve hot.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops
Assembling Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops is all about layering savory and sweet flavors for a tender, saucy result. Here’s how to put it together:
- Brown the Chops: Sear pork chops for a flavorful, golden crust.
- Create the Sauce: Mix a tangy, peachy sauce with herbs and a hint of spice.
- Slow Cook: Let the slow cooker tenderize the chops and meld the flavors.
- Top with Peaches: Add peach slices for a sweet, fruity finish.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve chops on a plate, topped with peaches and drizzled with sauce to show off the glossy finish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra thyme for a pop of color.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed green beans to soak up the sauce.
- Use white or colorful plates to highlight the vibrant peaches and rich sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops are great for leftovers or prepping ahead. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Cool completely, then store chops and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, about 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes per serving.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Sauce: Prepare the sauce up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate.
- Chops: Brown chops the night before, refrigerate, and transfer to the slow cooker the next day.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chops and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Tip: Store with extra sauce to keep the chops moist during reheating.
Recipe Variations
Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops are versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Spicy Version: Increase cayenne to 1/4 teaspoon or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
- Fruity Twist: Swap peaches with canned pineapple or apricots for a different sweet note.
- Herb Boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh rosemary for extra aroma.
- Low-Sodium: Skip soy sauce and use no-salt-added tomato sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Oven-Baked: Bake chops in a covered dish with sauce and peaches at 325°F for 1.5-2 hours.
- Grilled Finish: After slow cooking, grill chops for 1-2 minutes per side for a smoky char.
Tip: Keep the peaches and tomato sauce for the signature sweet-savory flavor.
Conclusion: Savor Your Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops!
You’ve just made Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops—a healthy, flavorful, and effortless dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This slow-cooker recipe is easy, versatile, and delivers tender pork with a delightful peachy sauce. Whether you serve it with simple sides or dress it up for guests, it’s sure to impress. Grab a plate, spoon on some sauce, and enjoy the sweet-savory goodness. What’s your favorite side for pork chops? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops
Description
Ever wanted to serve tender, juicy pork chops with a delightful peachy twist without spending hours in the kitchen? Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops are the perfect recipe! This slow-cooker dish combines bone-in pork chops with a sweet and tangy peach-tomato sauce, infused with herbs and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
- For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in center-cut pork loin chops (7 ounces each)
- 2 teaspoons canola oil
- For the Sauce:
- 1 can (8-1/4 ounces) sliced peaches in extra-light syrup
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon dried basil
- Dash to 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Pork Chops: Bone-in center-cut chops are juicy and flavorful, with the bone adding depth during slow cooking.
- Canola Oil: Used for browning, adding a light crispness to the chops.
- Sliced Peaches in Extra-Light Syrup: Provide sweet, fruity flavor with less sugar than regular syrup.
- Tomato Sauce: Adds a savory, slightly tangy base for the sauce.
- Water: Thins the sauce for proper slow cooking.
- Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce: Brings umami depth without too much salt.
- Rosemary, Thyme, Basil: Contribute earthy, aromatic notes to balance the sweetness.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds a subtle or moderate kick, depending on your preference.
Substitutions and Variations
- Pork Chops: Swap with boneless pork chops (reduce cooking time to 4-4.5 hours) or bone-in pork shoulder chops.
- Peaches: Use fresh peaches (peeled and sliced, about 1 cup) or peaches in water or juice for even less sugar.
- Tomato Sauce: Substitute with crushed tomatoes or a mild salsa for a different twist.
- Soy Sauce: Replace with tamari (gluten-free) or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
- Herbs: Use fresh herbs (1/2 teaspoon each, minced) or an Italian herb blend.
- Cayenne: Skip for no heat or increase to 1/4 teaspoon for a spicier sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Low-Sodium: Omit soy sauce and use low-sodium tomato sauce.
- Veggie Add-On: Add sliced onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Pat 2 bone-in pork chops (7 ounces each) dry with paper towels.
- Open 1 can (8-1/4 ounces) sliced peaches in extra-light syrup, reserving the juice.
- Measure 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1/8 teaspoon each of dried rosemary, thyme, and basil, and a dash to 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Tip: Drying the chops helps them brown evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops
- Heat Oil: In a small skillet, heat 2 teaspoons canola oil over medium heat.
- Brown Chops: Add pork chops and brown for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer: Place browned chops in a 1-1/2-quart slow cooker.
Tip: Browning adds flavor but can be skipped if short on time; place raw chops directly in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Drain Peaches: Drain peaches, reserving the juice in a bowl.
- Mix Sauce: In the same bowl, combine reserved peach juice, 1 can tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1/8 teaspoon each of rosemary, thyme, and basil, and a dash to 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Stir well.
Tip: Adjust cayenne to your spice preference for a custom heat level.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
- Add Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
- Top with Peaches: Arrange the drained peach slices on top of the chops.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 5 hours, until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for medium or 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
Tip: Check at 4.5 hours; smaller chops may cook faster.
Step 5: Serve
- Carefully remove pork chops and peaches from the slow cooker. Spoon sauce over the chops and serve hot.
FAQs
Q: Are Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops healthy?
A: Yes! Pork chops are high in protein, and the extra-light syrup and reduced-sodium soy sauce keep sugar and salt lower. Use lean chops and pair with veggies for a balanced meal.
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?
A: Yes! Boneless chops cook faster, so check at 4-4.5 hours to ensure they don’t overcook (145°F/63°C for medium).
Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A: After cooking, simmer the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, or add 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.
Q: Can I use fresh peaches?
A: Yes! Peel and slice 1 cup fresh peaches and add 1/4 cup water or apple juice to the sauce to mimic the syrup.
Q: Can I cook this on High?
A: Yes! Cook on High for 2.5-3 hours, checking for tenderness and 145°F (63°C) doneness.
Q: Can I freeze Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops?
A: Yes! Freeze cooked chops and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain texture.