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5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Oktoberfest Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender pork shanks, tangy sauerkraut, and rich dark beer, perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: german
Calories: 560
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces raw pork shanks, about 12 to 16 ounces each Choose good-quality pork shanks for best flavor.
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 cups sauerkraut, drained lightly Drain lightly to reduce excess moisture.
  • 1 cup dark beer, such as a lager or bock Feel free to experiment with different types of dark beer.
  • 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard Add more for an extra kick.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Scatter the sliced onion and sauerkraut across the bottom of a 6- to 7-quart slow cooker.
  2. Nestle the raw pork shanks on top of the onion and sauerkraut.
  3. Pour in the dark beer and spoon the whole-grain mustard over the shanks.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours, or until the meat is very tender.
  5. Transfer the pork shanks to a platter, skim excess fat from the cooking liquid, and spoon some of the onions, sauerkraut, and juices over the top before serving.

Notes

Pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or spaetzle. Leftover storage: refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. For a heartier stew, add diced potatoes or carrots at the beginning.