Savory Cider Pork Chops: A Flavorful Autumn Delight

Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy pork chop that has been lovingly marinated in a sweet apple cider concoction, each bite bursting with flavor. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy hug, enticing your senses and making your stomach growl like it’s auditioning for the next big food show.

Now, picture this: a chilly autumn evening, the leaves falling like confetti outside your window while you gather friends and family around a table filled with laughter and warmth. Cider pork chops are not just a meal; they are the culinary equivalent of a warm blanket on a cold day.

I remember the first time I made cider pork chops; my family’s delighted faces were priceless as they devoured every last bite and begged for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-in Pork Chops: Choose thick-cut chops for tenderness and juiciness during cooking.

• Apple Cider: Opt for fresh cider for authentic sweetness; it elevates the dish remarkably.

• Onion: A medium onion adds depth; its sweetness caramelizes beautifully when cooked.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic richness; do not skimp on this essential ingredient.

• Thyme: Fresh thyme imparts an earthy flavor; it complements the apple cider perfectly.

• Salt and Pepper: These staples enhance the flavors; season generously to taste.

• Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil for searing; it adds richness to the final dish.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth balances flavors and keeps the dish from becoming too salty.

• Balsamic Vinegar: This tangy addition brightens up the sauce while adding complexity.

• Honey: A splash of honey amplifies sweetness, tying all flavors together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make cider pork chops

Prepare Your Workspace: Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools like a frying pan and measuring cups. It saves time and keeps you organized.

Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each pork chop for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.

Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic around the chops in the pan. Cook until onions become translucent and release their sweet aroma.

Create the Sauce Base: Pour in apple cider along with chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and honey into the skillet. Stir gently to combine all flavors thoroughly.

Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low and let everything simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping those chops tender.

Thicken Your Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove chops once cooked through, then let sauce simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until reduced.

Serve these succulent cider pork chops with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about that chilly evening surrounded by loved ones.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the pork chops first to lock in flavor, then simmer in cider until perfectly tender. This sequence ensures a delicious caramelized crust with juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out apple cider for pear cider for a unique twist. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavor profile even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cider pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cider to keep them moist and flavorful.

There was this one time when I made cider pork chops for a dinner party and my friends couldn’t stop raving about them. They begged for the recipe like it was some secret family heirloom!

FAQ

What type of pork chop should I use for cider pork chops?

Bone-in chops offer more flavor and moisture compared to boneless options.

Can I use hard cider instead of regular apple cider?

Yes, hard cider adds an excellent depth of flavor but adjust sugar levels accordingly.

How do I know when my pork chops are done cooking?

Pork chops are safe when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Cider Pork Chops

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cider pork chops are a deliciously comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings. Marinated in a sweet apple cider blend, these juicy bone-in chops are seared to perfection and simmered with aromatic onions and garlic. The result is a mouthwatering meal that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, making every bite a celebration of autumn.

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Ingredients

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• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp fresh thyme (or to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and tools like a frying pan and measuring cups.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each pork chop for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Add chopped onions and minced garlic around the chops in the skillet; cook until onions are translucent.
4. Pour in apple cider, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and honey; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the pork is tender.
6. For a thicker sauce, remove the chops once cooked through and simmer the sauce uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pork chop with sauce (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg