Pork In Cider Sauce
Pork in cider sauce offers tender pork combined with sweet apple flavors and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for a comforting, family-friendly meal with a tangy twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, brown the pork in hot oil; drain off excess fat.
- Add 1/2 cup of the cider and the chopped onion; bring to boiling.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
- In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, brown sugar, salt, and vinegar.
- Add the mixture along with the chopped apple to the pork; cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
- Cook and stir for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve the pork in cider sauce over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the pork in apple cider overnight. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can increase the brown sugar or substitute with honey. To thicken the sauce more quickly, mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water before adding it to the pan. This dish pairs perfectly with hot cooked rice, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork in cider sauce over a bed of hot cooked rice for a comforting meal. Consider pairing it with steamed vegetables like green beans or a simple garden salad for balance. For a heartier option, serve alongside macaroni bake casserole, which complements the flavors beautifully. This dish is a great choice for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in cider sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave in short intervals, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Serve over freshly cooked rice for the best experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork In Cider Sauce contains roughly 204 calories, with 6g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1860mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of meat instead of pork?
Yes, you can substitute chicken or turkey for the pork in this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.
What can I use if I don't have apple cider?
If you don't have apple cider, apple juice is a suitable alternative. Alternatively, you can use white wine or chicken broth for a different flavor profile, but it will alter the sweetness and acidity of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the cornstarch with a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the vinegar, are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).