Anyway, the mulling spices and apple cider got me thinking about the specific scents and flavors I associate with certain holidays. And this, itself, made me want to try some kind of roast that incorporated the spices that remind me that the time for the annual gift exchange is nearing (let’s face it: it’s probably going to be last-minute gift cards. My gifting game is weak this year.)
But here’s my gift to you dear readers: a super-easy, super-delicious crockpot recipe that will have your house smelling AHHH-MAZING this season.
Picture credit goes to Wicked Spatula. Recipe modified by me.
Apple Cinnamon Pork Loin Recipe
Serves 4
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 6 hours
Ingredients
- 2 lb. boneless pork loin roast Note: If you do not like—or do not eat—pork, this recipe works equally well with chicken. I recommend a mix of chicken breast and thighs, and adding a little extra cooking fat to keep it from drying out.
- 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- ¼ cup honey (optional)
- 1 red onion, halved and sliced
- 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chicken stock
- Cooking fat (oil, butter, ghee, lard, duck fat, your preference!)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Season the pork to taste with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Melt some cooking fat in a large skillet placed over a high heat and brown the roast on all sides.
- Using a sharp knife, cut 3-inch deep slits into the pork loin.
- Insert apple slices into each pork slit.
- Place half of the remaining apples in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Place the roast over the apples.
- Drizzle the honey on top of the roast, if using, then add the onion and remaining apples.
- Add the chicken stock and sprinkle everything with cinnamon.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
And with that, good tidings, merry all-the-things, and a happy new year to you and yours!