Introduction
Have you ever craved a dinner that combines the sweet tanginess of autumn with the comforting richness of a well-cooked pork chop? If so, you’re in for a treat! These apple cider braised pork chops bring together the best flavors of the season in a dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Furthermore, this recipe transforms ordinary pork chops into a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
The magic happens when apple cider mingles with aromatic herbs and slowly tenderizes the meat. As a result, you’ll get pork chops so tender they practically melt in your mouth. Additionally, the natural sweetness of the cider creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the meat.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops
First of all, these apple cider braised pork chops are incredibly versatile. You can serve them for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering. Moreover, the ingredients are straightforward and likely already in your pantry.
The natural partnership between pork and apples has stood the test of time for good reason. Consequently, this pairing creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The braising method, meanwhile, ensures the pork stays juicy and tender rather than dry and tough.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For perfect apple cider braised pork chops, gather these simple ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 cups apple cider (not apple juice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pork Chops
- First, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Then, season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. After the oil is hot, add the pork chops.
- Sear the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Subsequently, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Creating the Apple Cider Braising Liquid
- In the same pan, add the sliced onions. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften and caramelize.
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the apple cider, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits contain tremendous flavor!
- Add the fresh herbs and bring the liquid to a simmer.
Braising the Pork Chops
- Return the pork chops to the pan, along with any accumulated juices.
- Add the sliced apples around the chops.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the pork chops braise for about 25-30 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once done, carefully remove the pork chops and apples to a serving platter.
Finishing the Sauce
- To thicken the sauce, whisk in the butter and optional flour. Then, increase the heat to medium and simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly.
- Pour the finished sauce over the apple cider braised pork chops before serving.
Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops
For the best results with your apple cider braised pork chops, consider these helpful tips:
- Choose bone-in pork chops for more flavor. However, boneless will work too if that’s what you have on hand.
- Real apple cider provides the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use apple juice with a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Granny Smith hold up well during braising and complement the pork beautifully.
- Don’t rush the braising process! The slow cooking is what makes these apple cider braised pork chops so tender.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water instead of flour.
Serving Suggestions
These apple cider braised pork chops pair wonderfully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette
Storing and Reheating
After enjoying your meal, you might have leftover apple cider braised pork chops. Fortunately, they store and reheat well!
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and sauce in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook the pork.
Conclusion
These apple cider braised pork chops offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in a comforting, satisfying dish. The natural affinity between pork and apples shines in this recipe, while the braising method ensures tender, juicy meat every time.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting weekend guests, this dish is sure to impress. Best of all, it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to master!
Have you tried these apple cider braised pork chops? Let us know in the comments below how they turned out!
Description
Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with apple cider braised pork chops—tender, juicy meat simmered in cider and herbs, creating a sweet, savory, and comforting dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preparing the Pork Chops
- First, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Then, season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. After the oil is hot, add the pork chops.
- Sear the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Subsequently, remove them from the pan and set aside.
-
Creating the Apple Cider Braising Liquid
- In the same pan, add the sliced onions. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften and caramelize.
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the apple cider, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits contain tremendous flavor!
- Add the fresh herbs and bring the liquid to a simmer.
-
Braising the Pork Chops
- Return the pork chops to the pan, along with any accumulated juices.
- Add the sliced apples around the chops.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the pork chops braise for about 25-30 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once done, carefully remove the pork chops and apples to a serving platter.
-
Finishing the Sauce
- To thicken the sauce, whisk in the butter and optional flour. Then, increase the heat to medium and simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly.
- Pour the finished sauce over the apple cider braised pork chops before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Cholesterol 110mg37%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 12g
- Protein 32g64%
- Vitamin C 9 mg
- Calcium 48 mg
- Iron 2.2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
