Pork pairs perfectly with apples and sauerkraut,

These easy tasty options are perfect for a busy week

PORK WITH APPLES AND SAUERKRAUT

FAMILY DINNER: When I was growing up, pork with apples and sauerkraut was a favorite family meal. This combo demands mashed potatoes alongside! Cranberry sauce goes well with the flavors, as does rye bread. Top strawberries with whipped cream for dessert.

Ingredients

1 1/ 2 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1- inch pieces 2 pounds refrigerated sauerkraut, well-rinsed and drained 1/ 2 cup unsalted chicken broth 1 Granny Smith apple, unpeeled, cored and coarsely chopped 1 cup chopped onion 1 1/ 2 pounds lean boneless country- style pork ribs 1/ 2 pound kielbasa or Polish sausage, cut into 1 1/ 2- inch pieces 3/ 4 cup apple juice 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1 teaspoon ground mustard 1/ 2 teaspoon whole allspice Servings: makes 5 servings Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 8 hours on low; 4 hours on high

Place potatoes in a 4- quart or larger slow cooker. In a large bowl, mix sauerkraut, broth, apple and onion; spoon half over potatoes. Top with pork, kielbasa and remaining sauerkraut mixture. In small bowl, mix juice, brown sugar, caraway seeds, mustard and allspice. Lightly stir mixture into sauerkraut. Cover. Cook 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high or until meat and vegetables are tender.

Per serving: 510 calories, 38 grams protein, 19 grams fat ( 32 percent calories from fat), 6.7 grams saturated fat, 50 grams carbohydrate, 126 milligrams cholesterol, 1,671 milligrams sodium, 9 grams fiber. Carb count: 3.5. Note: Skip this recipe if you are on a sodium restricted diet. Cured meats such as sausage and bacon are high in sodium, as is sauerkraut.