Glazed smoked chops with pears is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the savory and sweet flavors, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner. The smoky, robust flavor of the pork chops is beautifully complemented by the natural sweetness of ripe pears, which are caramelized to perfection in a rich, buttery glaze. This dish not only impresses with its complex flavors but also with its simplicity, making it a go-to recipe for both special occasions and weeknight meals. The combination of tender meat and soft, golden pears, all enveloped in a sweet and tangy glaze, will make this a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 4 smoked pork chops
- 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the smoked pork chops dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Pork Chops: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and heated through. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Caramelize the Pears: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the sliced pears and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and caramelize.
- Make the Glaze: Reduce the heat to medium and sprinkle the brown sugar over the pears. Stir gently until the sugar melts and coats the pears. Add the apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir to combine, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the pears. Spoon some of the glaze over the chops and let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the pork chops are fully glazed and heated through, transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the caramelized pears and remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your Glazed Smoked Chops with Pears with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
