Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly seared pork chop, its juicy tenderness enhanced by the sweet and tangy notes of caramelized apples and shallots. This American classic, "Pork Chops with Apples and Shallots," is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport your taste buds to a cozy autumn evening, no matter the season. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour of your time, you can create a dish that feels both gourmet and comforting. Ready to impress your family or guests? Dive into this recipe that promises to be a showstopper on your dinner table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large shallot, sliced
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat the chops dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and just beginning to smoke.
- Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tenting with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add sliced shallots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent.
- Add sliced apples to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to caramelize and soften.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the apple and shallot mixture. Spoon some of the pan sauce over the chops and heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the pork chops to serving plates, topping them with the apple and shallot mixture. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Tips
- Bring Pork Chops to Room Temperature: For even cooking, take the pork chops out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before you start cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and retain moisture.
- Sear for Maximum Flavor: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork chops. A good sear not only locks in juices but also adds a rich flavor that enhances the entire dish.
- Don’t Rush the Shallots and Apples: Allow the shallots to soften and the apples to caramelize properly. This step is crucial for developing the dish's sweet and savory depth.
- Scrape the Pan: When adding the chicken broth, be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits are packed with flavor and will elevate your sauce.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only adds a pop of color but also infuses the dish with a delightful herbal aroma. Presentation matters, so serve the dish with a side that complements its rich flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
