Apple Cider Pork Chops - A Delicious and Flavorful Fall Recipe

Introduction

This recipe for Apple Cider Sage Pork Chops is perfect for fall, featuring pork chops brined in apple cider and cooked with fresh apples and sage. The dish is known for its juiciness, flavor, and ease of preparation, making it an impressive yet simple meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of water
• ¼ cup of kosher salt
• 4 peeled garlic cloves
• 4 sage leaves
• 1 tablespoon of whole black peppercorns
• 2 cups of apple cider
• 4 bone-in pork chops
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Shallot
• Fresh sage
• Apple
• Salt and pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Brine:

   • Combine water, kosher salt, garlic, sage leaves, and black peppercorns in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cool to room temperature. Add apple cider.

2. Brine the Pork Chops:

   • Place pork chops in the brine, ensuring they're fully covered. Refrigerate for a couple of hours.

3. Rinse and Dry Pork Chops:

   • Rinse the pork chops after brining and pat them dry.

4. Prepare for Cooking:

   • Dice the shallot and chop sage leaves. Peel and slice the apple.

5. Cook the Pork Chops:

   • Heat olive oil and butter in a pan. Sear pork chops on both sides until golden. Remove and cover with foil.

6. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same pan, add butter and cook the apple slices, shallot, and sage. Add apple cider and Dijon mustard. Stir well.

7. Finish Cooking:

   • Return pork chops to the pan, spooning the sauce over them. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

8. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh sage leaves and serve with the sauce.

Conclusion

These Apple Cider Sage Pork Chops are a flavorful and juicy dish, perfect for a fall dinner or holiday table. The combination of apple cider, sage, and tender pork chops creates a delightful and easy-to-make meal. Enjoy it with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a complete dining experience.