Indulge in a hearty meal that combines the succulence of pork chops with the sweetness of apples and the tang of onions. This recipe is a comforting fusion of flavors that will transport you to the heart of autumn. Cooked with a blend of savory spices and fresh herbs, every bite is an explosion of taste that will leave you craving for more.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, sweet crisp apples such as the Honeycrisp variety may not always be available in your kitchen. These are specifically chosen for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness which complements the savory taste of the pork chops. Also, fresh sage and rosemary are used, which can be found in the fresh herb section of your supermarket, these bring an aromatic depth to the dish.
Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Ingredients
Pork chops: The star of the dish, it brings a rich, savory flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and seasoning to the dish.
Apple cider: Injects a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Dijon mustard: Provides a sharp, tangy taste.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, sweet-spicy note.
Ground allspice: Brings a complex blend of flavors including cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Olive oil: Used for searing the pork chops, providing a slightly earthy, rich taste.
Butter: Adds richness and depth to the dish.
Sweet crisp apples: Provide a sweet counterbalance to the savory pork chops.
Red onion: Gives a pungent, spicy, and somewhat sweet flavor.
Sage: It's peppery and slightly bitter flavor enhances the dish.
Rosemary: It adds a unique, aromatic taste.
One reader, Hubert Rapp says:
This pork chops with apples and onions recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory pork, sweet apples, and aromatic spices creates an explosion of flavors. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques for Cooking Pork Chops With Apples and Onions
How to sear pork chops: Searing the pork chops in a hot skillet helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust on the outside.
How to sauté apples and onions: Sautéing the apples and onions in butter and herbs until tender and fragrant adds a sweet and savory component to the dish.
How to deglaze a pan: Deglazing the pan with the broth mixture helps to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, adding depth of flavor to the sauce.
How to check pork chop doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
How To Make Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
Serve a delightful dinner brimming with fall flavors with these seared pork chops, served with sauteed apples, onions, and sage in spiced cider sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 20ozpork chops,(4 pork chops), ¾-inch thick, boneless
- ½cuplow-sodium chicken broth
- ½cupapple cider
- 1½tspDijon mustard
- ½tspground cinnamon
- ⅛tspground allspice
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1tbspolive oil
- 2tbspbutter
- 2medium sweet crisp apples,such as honey crisp, gala, Fuji, golden delicious etc., thinly sliced
- 1small red onion,thinly sliced
- 1½tspfresh sage,minced
- 1½tspfresh rosemary,minced
Instructions
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Preferably let pork chops rest at room temperature 10 minutes while preparing ingredients.
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In a liquid measuring cup or bowl whisk together broth, apple cider, mustard, cinnamon, and allspice. Set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of pork chops with salt and pepper (about ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper total).
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Once the oil is shimmering add pork chops. Sear until browned on the bottom for about 4 to 5 minutes then flip and continue to cook for about 4 to 5 minutes longer until center registers 145 degrees F.
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Transfer pork chops to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
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Add in apples, onions, sage, and rosemary and saute for about 4 minutes until tender. Pour in broth mixture and season with a little salt as desired.
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Let simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes until reduced by about half, stirring occasionally. Return pork chops to pan and spoon mixture over chops. Serve warm.
Recipe Notes
For a slightly thicker sauce, if desired, whisk 1 teaspoon cornstarch in with the broth before adding to the skillet. Stir frequently.
Nutrition
- Calories: 403.12kcal
- Fat: 22.57g
- Saturated Fat: 8.55g
- Trans Fat: 0.36g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.15g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.40g
- Carbohydrates: 19.77g
- Fiber: 3.49g
- Sugar: 13.27g
- Protein: 30.78g
- Cholesterol: 113.07mg
- Sodium: 758.62mg
- Calcium: 68.74mg
- Potassium: 698.39mg
- Iron: 1.62mg
- Vitamin A: 57.88µg
- Vitamin C: 6.18mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Pork Chops With Apples and Onions
When searing the pork chops, it's crucial to wait until the oil is shimmering before adding them to the pan. This ensures that the pan is hot enough to create a nice, brown crust on the chops. If the pan isn't hot enough, the chops may stick to the pan and tear when you try to flip them. Also, resist the urge to move the chops around in the pan while they're searing. Let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes to achieve the best sear.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pork Chop Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonder: Use a large skillet to cook the pork chops, apples, and onions all in one go, minimizing cleanup.
Multitask: While the pork chops are resting, prepare the apple and onion mixture to save time.
Quick sear: Sear the pork chops over higher heat for a shorter time to lock in flavor without overcooking.
Efficient slicing: Use a sharp knife to quickly and evenly slice the apples and onions for even cooking.
Simmer smart: Let the broth mixture simmer while the pork chops are resting to reduce cooking time.
Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning gradually to save time on correcting flavors later.
Substitute Ingredients For Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Recipe
pork chops - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean and versatile alternative to pork chops, providing a similar texture and flavor when cooked. It can be a healthier option and pairs well with the apples and onions in the recipe.
apple cider - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can be used as a substitute for apple cider in this recipe, providing a similar sweet and fruity flavor. However, it may lack the acidity and depth of flavor that apple cider offers.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute for Dijon mustard, adding a slightly different texture and a more pronounced mustard seed flavor to the dish.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg can be used as a substitute for ground cinnamon, providing a warm and slightly sweet flavor that complements the apples and onions in the recipe.
ground allspice - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can be used as a substitute for ground allspice, offering a similar warm and aromatic flavor profile to enhance the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a neutral flavor and a high smoke point for cooking the pork chops.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the dish while offering a higher smoke point for cooking.
sweet crisp apples - Substitute with pear: Pears can be used as a substitute for apples, providing a similar sweet and juicy texture with a slightly different flavor profile to complement the pork chops.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can be used as a substitute for red onions, offering a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
fresh sage - Substitute with fresh thyme: Fresh thyme can be used as a substitute for sage, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to enhance the dish.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with fresh tarragon: Fresh tarragon can be used as a substitute for rosemary, adding a slightly different herbal and anise-like flavor to the recipe.
Presenting Pork Chops With Apples and Onions
Elevate the pork chops: Carefully arrange the perfectly cooked pork chops on the plate, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish. The chops should be positioned in a way that showcases their succulence and tenderness.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a delicate arrangement of fresh sage and rosemary around the pork chops. The vibrant green hues will add a pop of color and a touch of earthy fragrance to the dish.
Create a symmetrical apple and onion medley: Arrange the sautéed apples and onions in a visually appealing manner around the pork chops. The symmetrical placement will create a sense of balance and harmony on the plate.
Drizzle with reduction: Carefully drizzle the reduced broth mixture over the pork chops, ensuring an even distribution across the dish. The glossy sheen of the reduction will add a touch of elegance and richness to the presentation.
Incorporate negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to breathe and the elements to stand out. A well-considered use of empty space can enhance the overall visual impact.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant serving plates and utensils that complement the sophistication of the dish. The right serving ware can elevate the dining experience and add a luxurious touch to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making This Pork Chop Dish
- Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has low sides and a long handle, making it perfect for cooking pork chops and sautéing apples and onions.
- Liquid measuring cup: A liquid measuring cup is used to accurately measure and pour liquid ingredients such as chicken broth and apple cider. It usually has a spout for easy pouring.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and stirring ingredients. It is essential for combining the chicken broth, apple cider, mustard, cinnamon, and allspice in this recipe.
- Instant-read thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is used to check the internal temperature of the pork chops to ensure they are cooked to perfection. It provides quick and accurate readings for food safety.
- Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a versatile tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients. It is essential for preparing the apples, onions, sage, and rosemary in this recipe.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients. It helps protect countertops and keeps the kitchen organized while working with the apples, onions, sage, and rosemary.
- Tongs: Tongs are used for flipping and handling the pork chops while searing and cooking. They provide a secure grip and help prevent splatters and burns.
- Spatula: A spatula is useful for transferring the pork chops to a plate and for stirring the apples, onions, and herbs in the skillet. It helps to ensure that the ingredients are evenly cooked and combined.
- Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure and add small amounts of spices, such as salt, pepper, and allspice, to the recipe. They ensure precise seasoning and flavor balance.
Storing and Freezing Pork Chops With Apples and Onions
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the pork chops with apples and onions recipe:
Storing in the fridge: Allow the cooked pork chops to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, place the pork chops and the apple and onion mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing: To freeze the pork chops, wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped chops in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To freeze the apple and onion mixture, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing and reheating: To thaw the frozen pork chops, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight. To reheat, unwrap the pork chops and place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. To thaw the frozen apple and onion mixture, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. To reheat, place the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
How To Reheat Leftover Pork Chops With Apples and Onions
To reheat leftover pork chops with apples and onions, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pork chops in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the pork chops from drying out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the pork chops in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan and cover with a lid. Heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are heated through. This method helps to keep the pork chops moist and infuses them with additional flavor from the liquid.
If you want to reheat the apples and onions separately, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the mixture halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a quick and easy reheating option, place the pork chops, apples, and onions in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to stir the apple and onion mixture and flip the pork chops halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the pork chops and get a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pork chops in the basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. Reheat the apples and onions separately using one of the methods mentioned above.
Interesting Trivia About Pork Chops With Apples and Onions
The pork chops with apples and onions recipe is a delicious combination of savory and sweet flavors. It's a great way to incorporate seasonal fruits into a hearty meal. The apples and onions add a delightful sweetness to the dish, complementing the savory pork chops perfectly. This recipe is a wonderful example of how contrasting flavors can come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly Pork Chops With Apples and Onions
This pork chops with apples and onions recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pork chops, apples, onions, and spices, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The combination of flavors and the use of affordable, readily available ingredients make this dish a great option for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly choice. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is This Pork Chop Recipe Healthy or Not?
This pork chops with apples and onions recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, fruits, and vegetables. The pork chops provide a lean source of protein, while the apples and onions offer dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The use of low-sodium chicken broth and a small amount of olive oil and butter helps keep the sodium and saturated fat content in check.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Use a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, to further reduce the fat content
- Replace the butter with additional olive oil or a healthier alternative like avocado oil
- Increase the amount of apples and onions to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
- Consider adding more vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to increase the variety of nutrients
- Opt for unsweetened apple cider to reduce the sugar content slightly
To make this recipe even more nutritious, you could:
- Serve the pork chops with a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
- Pair the dish with a leafy green salad to increase the vegetable intake and provide a fresh, light contrast to the rich flavors of the pork and apples
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add extra flavor and a pop of color without increasing the calorie content
The Editor's Take on This Pork Chop Recipe
The pork chops with apples and onions recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The use of apple cider and spices adds depth to the dish, while the seared pork chops bring a rich and succulent element. The addition of fresh herbs like sage and rosemary elevates the overall aroma and taste. The recipe is well-balanced and offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Enhance Your Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. The succulent pork chops are seared to perfection, while the apples and onions are sautéed to tender, caramelized perfection. The addition of apple cider and chicken broth infuses the dish with rich, complex flavors, enhanced by aromatic sage and rosemary. With a touch of cinnamon and allspice, this dish promises a symphony of seasonal tastes that will elevate your dining experience. Trust in this recipe for a delectable meal that celebrates the essence of fall.
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