Oktoberfest Comfort: Just 5 ingredients. I make it when I want a hearty dinner handled hours ahead, letting the house smell wonderful all afternoon.

teaspoon added to the slow cooker gives the dish a more traditional German-style aroma that pairs especially well with the sauerkraut.

Pork shanks with caraway-scented sauerkraut
Pork shanks with caraway-scented sauerkraut

For a Milder Finish: Rinse the sauerkraut briefly before using if you prefer a softer tang. You will still get the classic sweet-sour balance, but the pork will read as a bit richer and less sharp.

Brown First if You Have Time: Although this recipe is designed for maximum ease, browning the pork shanks in a skillet before they go into the slow cooker

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