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Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops - featured image

Tender pork chops braised in apple cider with savory herbs and spices, creating a cozy and flavorful fall dish perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops
  • 1 cup fresh, unfiltered apple cider
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 34 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: splash of heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of apple cider and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of chicken stock, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and a few sprigs of fresh thyme.
  6. Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the liquid. Cover with a lid and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
  7. Remove the pork chops and thyme from the skillet. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter (and a splash of heavy cream if desired) to make the sauce silky and rich.
  8. Plate the pork chops and spoon the sauce generously over them. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Choose thick-cut pork chops for better results. Take your time to sear the pork chops properly for added flavor. Adjust the sauce consistency by simmering uncovered if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Apple cider, Pork chops, Fall recipe, Braised pork, Comfort food