Imagine a dish that combines the rich, savory flavor of perfectly seared pork chops with the sweet, warm embrace of cinnamon-spiced apples. This isn't just another dinner recipe – it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you'll create a symphony of flavors that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them into thin, even wedges approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter, allowing it to melt and slightly foam.
- Place pork chops in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from skillet and set aside on a warm plate, tenting loosely with aluminum foil to rest.
- In the same skillet, add apple slices, cinnamon, and brown sugar, stirring to coat apples evenly.
- Sauté apple mixture for 3-4 minutes until apples are tender but still hold their shape and caramelize slightly.
- Plate the pork chops and top with the warm cinnamon apples, serving immediately.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent dry, tough meat.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the pork chops. This simple step is crucial for achieving that gorgeous golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and ensure proper browning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat meat every time.
- Let It Rest: Always let the pork chops rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Caramelization is Your Friend: When cooking the apples, don't rush the process. Let them caramelize slightly to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 305kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 77mg
