Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

If you’re craving a cozy, fall-inspired meal, Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops are just what you need! These tender pork chops are slowly braised in a flavorful apple cider sauce, bringing out the perfect blend of sweet and savory. It’s an ideal dish to enjoy during the cooler months, offering comfort and seasonal flavors in every bite.

Ingredients List

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup apple cider (preferably unfiltered)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Fresh thyme sprigs or apple slices

Timing

Step-by-Step Guide to Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops- Generously season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them sit while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4: Deglaze with Apple Cider- Pour the apple cider into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. These bits add extra flavor to the sauce!

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients- Stir in the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and fresh thyme. Add the seared pork chops back into the skillet, making sure they are nestled in the cider mixture.

Step 6: Braise the Pork Chops- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pork chops braise in the apple cider mixture for 20-25 minutes. Turn the chops halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 7: Finish with Butter- Once the pork chops are tender and cooked through, stir in the butter to add a rich finish to the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme or apple slices.

Best Apple Cider to Use for Braising Pork Chops

For the best flavor, I recommend using unfiltered apple cider. It has a more robust, natural apple flavor, which pairs perfectly with pork. If you can find a local cider, even better! But store-bought works great too.

The Secret to Tender and Juicy Pork Chops

The key to keeping pork chops juicy is to avoid overcooking them. Braising them in apple cider helps lock in moisture, but I always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe, perfectly cooked pork.

Flavor Pairings: What to Serve with Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

These braised pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a warm, crusty bread to soak up the apple cider sauce. You could also serve them with a side of sautéed greens, like kale or spinach, for a well-rounded meal.

Variations of Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

1- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cider for a bit of heat.

2- Sweet and Tangy: Toss in a few apple slices or a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter version.

3- Herbal Infusion: Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different herbal note.

Tips for Perfecting Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops Every Time

1- Searing: Make sure the pan is hot before adding the pork chops to get a nice crust.

2- Resting: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.

3- Don’t Rush: The longer you braise the pork chops, the more tender they’ll be. Just keep the heat low and slow.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

• Storage: Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of apple cider to keep them moist. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the chops.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 7g