Welcome to a delightful culinary experience that perfectly marries savory and sweet! Picture this: succulent pork chops seared to perfection, paired with a luscious, warm applesauce that dances with flavors. This classic American dish, "Pork Chops and Applesauce," is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Whether you're looking to impress your family at dinner or simply indulge in a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to elevate your mealtime? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup applesauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
- Season both sides of pork chops generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and appears slightly rippling.
- Carefully place seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet, allowing them to sear without moving for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust.
- Flip pork chops and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
- Remove pork chops from skillet and let rest on a plate for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Warm applesauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Optional: Sprinkle cinnamon into applesauce for enhanced flavor complexity.
- Plate pork chops and generously spoon warm applesauce over the top or serve on the side.
- Serve immediately while pork chops are hot and applesauce is warm.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Take the pork chops out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving even cooking and a juicy texture.
- Pat Dry for a Perfect Sear: Before seasoning, make sure to pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture, allowing for a beautiful golden-brown crust when seared.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Season both sides of the pork chops generously to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Heat the Skillet Properly: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the pork chops. Look for olive oil that shimmers and ripples—this indicates it’s ready for searing.
- Don’t Move Them Around: Once you place the pork chops in the skillet, resist the urge to move them. Letting them sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes will create a perfect crust.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
- Rest for Juiciness: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes on a plate. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Enhance Your Applesauce: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to your warm applesauce. It complements the pork beautifully!
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, plate the pork chops and spoon warm applesauce over the top just before serving. Enjoy the delightful contrast of hot and cold!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
