Sweet and Tangy Apple Pork Chops are a perfect combination of juicy, savory pork and the natural sweetness of apples, complemented by a tangy apple cider glaze. This dish captures the essence of autumn but is delicious any time of year. The apples cook down to a tender, caramelized perfection, while the pork chops remain juicy and flavorful. The tangy glaze, made from apple cider and Dijon mustard, ties everything together, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Serve these chops with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a delightful dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Apples and Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced apples and onions. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the onions are caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Glaze:
- Stir in the apple cider, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Allow the glaze to cook for about 5 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly.
- Combine and Cook:
- Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the apples and onions. Spoon some of the glaze over the chops. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are fully cooked through.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the pork chops topped with the apples, onions, and a generous drizzle of the tangy glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
These Sweet and Tangy Apple Pork Chops are a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of juicy pork, sweet apples, and a tangy glaze, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. The combination of savory and sweet, with a hint of tartness, creates a harmonious balance that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
