The final ingredient for our Seasonal September recipe theme is apples! We have a community orchard at the end of our garden and it's open for the whole village to pick apples or relax in nature as they wish. So it seemed like the perfect choice. Plus, a good Granny Smith has got to be one of my favourite things ever!

Just in case you need any convincing, here are our favourite 'juicy' apple health benefits...

1. Nutrient-Rich
Apples are a good source of essential nutrients like dietary fibre, vitamin C, potassium, and various antioxidants, all of which contribute to overall health.

2. Heart Health
The fibre in apples can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Potassium in apples supports healthy blood pressure levels.

3. Weight Management
Apples are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a filling and satisfying snack. They can aid in weight management by curbing appetite.

4. Digestive Health
The fibre in apples promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation. It also supports a balanced gut microbiome.

5. Antioxidant Protection
Apples contain antioxidants like quercetin, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

6 ingredients | 4 hours (slow cooking) | 2 servings

Ingredients

227gm Pork Tenderloin
1 Apple (sliced into rounds and divided in half)
1 1/2 Carrot (medium, sliced into rounds)
1/2 Yellow Onion (diced)
32gm Raw Honey
4gm Cinnamon

Directions

1. Firstly, rub half of the cinnamon into the outside of the pork tenderloin.

2. Then cut slits at equal intervals all the way along it (to about 3/4 of the way through).

3. Wedge half of the apple slices into the slits.

4. Add remaining apple, and all of the carrots and onion to the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the pork tenderloin on top.

5. Drizzle with the honey and sprinkle cinnamon over everything.

6. Cook on low for 4 hours.

7. Remove pork and vegetables from the slow cooker and divide onto plates. Season with salt and pepper if needed and enjoy!

Hints & Tips

More Greens or Veggies - serve on a bed of spinach or add your choice of veggies to the slow cooker.

More Carbs - serve with rice, quinoa or mini roast potatoes. Or add potatoes to the veggie mix when cooking.