Here’s a delicious and comforting recipe for Apple Pork Chops, featuring juicy pork chops paired with a sweet and savory apple sauce:
Apple Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or apple cider)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Chops
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Pork Chops
- Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Apple Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and apples. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to soften and the apples start to caramelize.
- Add the chicken broth (or apple cider), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar (if using), cinnamon, and ginger. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Combine the Pork Chops and Sauce
- Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, spooning the apple and onion mixture over the top.
- Simmer for another 3-4 minutes to allow the pork chops to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken.
- Serve
- Plate the pork chops and spoon the apple mixture over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the brown sugar to taste, depending on how sweet or tart you want the sauce.
- Add Nuts: For added texture, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples just before serving.
- Side Pairings: These apple pork chops go wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
This Apple Pork Chops recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner with a sweet and savory flavor combination.