Ingredients
4 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4-inch thick
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of chicken broth
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for finishing)
Preparation
Seasoning the Chops: Begin by generously seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper.
Browning the Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
Creating the Base: In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute. Sprinkle the mixture with flour, stirring well to coat, and cook for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Building the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and thyme, ensuring everything is well combined.
Slow Cooking: Pour the onion and sauce mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker. Cover and set to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and the flavors are thoroughly merged.
Finishing Touches: For a creamy gravy, stir in sour cream just before serving. This step is optional but adds a delightful richness to the dish.
Variations & Tips:
For added indulgence, incorporate a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter into the gravy just before serving.
Add a bit of heat with cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions for those who like it spicy.
Experiment with different herbs like sage or rosemary to find your preferred flavor profile.
Browning the pork chops before slow cooking deepens the flavor, making this step crucial for the best results.
Don’t discard the bones after cooking; they are packed with flavor and add to the dish’s authenticity and heartiness.
This Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops recipe is more than a meal; it’s an experience that brings the taste of the Midwest straight to your table, embodying the comfort and generosity of its culinary traditions. Enjoy the deep, satisfying flavors and the ease of preparation that make this dish a beloved favorite.