This Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish is a tasty mix of juicy pork and sweet apples, cooked to perfection with herbs and spices. It’s a warm hug for your taste buds!
Cook it up for a cozy dinner, and watch everyone come back for seconds. 🥰 I love pairing it with rice or a fresh salad for a colorful meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: For this recipe, go for bone-in chops if you can, as they tend to be juicier. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork loin chops work too!
Apples: I love using Golden Delicious for their sweetness. Fuji or Granny Smith are great alternatives. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, Granny Smith is the way to go!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor. If you’re out of it, vegetable oil or avocado oil can work in a pinch, but they might not give the same depth of taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can work. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add a fragrant touch!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions can really elevate the flavor of your dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Adding olive oil helps to prevent burning.
- Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt, which helps to draw out moisture.
- Keep the heat moderate; too high might cause burning. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Allow about 5-7 minutes for onions to soften and turn golden brown. Patience is key here.
With a little time and attention, your onions will be sweet and caramelized, ready to complement your pork dish beautifully!
How to Make Mediterranean Pork & Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 large apples (such as Golden Delicious or Fuji), sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This delightful Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking, so you can enjoy a delicious dinner without too much hassle.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Begin by generously seasoning the pork chops with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dried oregano on both sides. This will enhance the flavors of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. After searing, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally until they start to soften and caramelize, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add More Flavor:
Next, add minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and apple slices to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 4-5 minutes, until the apples begin to soften but still maintain some texture.
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) along with the apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to mix in all those wonderful flavors.
6. Simmer with the Pork:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the apples and vegetables. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pork chops are fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust seasoning with any additional salt and pepper if needed. This ensures the flavors are just perfect!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh Mediterranean salad!
Enjoy your Mediterranean Pork & Apples! It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat Instead of Pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork chops with chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may cook faster. Always ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes! Just chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly for denser vegetables.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork and vegetables a day in advance. Just sear the pork and sauté the vegetables, then store them separately. On the day of serving, combine them and heat everything through for a quick meal!