‘Holiday Hug’ is the name my sister gave this one. Everyone thinks it’s straight from a festive feast, and I’ve made it twice this week already!

2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup apple cider
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks and brown on all sides. Transfer the pork to a slow cooker.

2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add them to the slow cooker.

3. Add the cranberries, chicken broth, apple cider, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.