Wild Eats & Treats!

Pork Chops with Caramelized Apples and Onions

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth

Preparation:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by coring and slicing the apples and onion into thin slices. Set them aside as you prepare the remaining ingredients.

2. Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you enjoy a touch of spice, feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon to the seasoning for the apples.

3. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. You may need to adjust the time if your pork chops are thicker. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering them with foil to keep warm.

4. Caramelize the Onions and Apples: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Add the sliced apples and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples and onions are golden brown and caramelized.

5. Add Flavor and Create the Sauce: Stir in the fresh thyme leaves and apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to reduce slightly.

6. Combine Everything: Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them in with the apples and onions. Allow them to heat through for about 2 minutes. Ensure the pork chops are well-coated with the caramelized mixture.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate each pork chop along with a generous portion of the apple and onion mixture on top. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the dish, adding a beautiful touch of flavor. Serve warm.

Recipe Summary

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Total Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving

This delightful Pork Chop with Caramelized Apples and Onions recipe is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, offering a cozy, flavorful meal that can be enjoyed for any occasion. Each bite delivers a tender, juicy pork chop paired with a rich, buttery apple and onion medley, bringing the comforting warmth of fall directly to your table. Enjoy the harmony of these natural ingredients as you indulge in this wholesome, healthy dish that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress.