Pork Stew in Cider (Slow Cooker) without bacon

1 large yellow onion , chopped 1 tart apple , peeled, cored, and chopped in 1-inch pieces 1 (8 ounce) can water chestnuts , drained & cut in half 1 1/2 lbs[...]

3 lbs boned pork shoulder, trimmed of fat and cut into 2-inch cubes salt fresh ground black pepper 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary 4 ounces pork rinds[...]

30 white pearl onions (from two 10-ounce bags) 5 slices thick-cut bacon , cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick strips (preferably applewood-smoked) 3 1/2 lbs[...]