Cranberry-Apple Pork Chops are a deliciously sweet and savory dish that combines tender pork chops with the tartness of cranberries and the natural sweetness of apples. The fruit is simmered with onions and a touch of cinnamon, creating a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the pork. This dish is ideal for autumn or winter dinners when you crave something warm, hearty, and full of seasonal flavors. It’s easy to prepare and impressive enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
- Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Cook the Onions and Apples: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for about 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the apple slices and cook for another 3 minutes, until they start to soften and caramelize.
- Add the Cranberries and Spices: Stir in the cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to soften and release their juices.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the apple cider (or juice), chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Simmer the Pork Chops: Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the cranberry-apple mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C) and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Serve the Cranberry-Apple Pork Chops hot, with the cranberry-apple mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Enjoy this flavorful Cranberry-Apple Pork Chops dish as a comforting and festive meal that’s perfect for the fall and winter seasons!
