This Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish blends savory pork with sweet apples for a yummy meal. It’s a simple one-pan recipe that’s packed with flavor and perfect for dinner!
Honestly, the tender pork and sweet apples dance on your taste buds! I love serving this with rice or some crusty bread to soak up all the tasty juices. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I prefer bone-in chops for their flavor and moisture, but boneless chops work too. If you want a leaner option, use skinless chicken thighs as a substitute!
Apples: For a slightly tangy flavor, I suggest Granny Smith apples. If you prefer sweeter apples, go for Honeycrisp or Fuji. You could even use pears for a twist!
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for sautéing, but avocado oil or vegetable oil can be substituted if you want a different profile.
Pomegranate Seeds: They add a lovely crunch and brightness. If unavailable, dried cranberries or even chopped nuts like walnuts can make good replacements!
Chicken Broth or White Wine: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, vegetable broth works great. You can use water, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
How Do You Get Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Searing adds a beautiful golden crust to the pork chops and enhances flavor. Here’s how it’s done:
- Start with a dry surface; pat the chops with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Heat the skillet carefully; it should be hot but not smoking when you add the oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chops in batches if necessary to keep the heat high.
- Let them sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on one side; flipping too soon prevents that nice crust from forming.
- After flipping, keep an eye on the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
With these tips, you’ll achieve that ideal sear every time!
How to Make Mediterranean Pork & Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth or white wine
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish takes about 15 minutes of prep and around 25 minutes of cooking. So overall, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Now, sprinkle salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin on both sides of the pork chops to add flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. Then, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute more, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning.
4. Add the Vegetables and Apples:
Now, toss in the sliced apples, baby carrots, and green beans. Give everything a good stir to mix the flavors together.
5. Create the Flavor Base:
Pour in the chicken broth or white wine, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup. Then, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Return the Pork Chops to the Skillet:
Nestle the seared pork chops back into the skillet on top of the veggies and apples. Add the sprig of rosemary for extra flavor.
7. Simmer to Perfection:
Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. This will cook the pork through and make the vegetables tender. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C).
8. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the rosemary sprig. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops along with the delicious apples and vegetables. Spoon some lovely pan sauce over everything. Finally, garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds for a beautiful finish. Serve right away and enjoy this delightful Mediterranean dinner!
This dish beautifully balances savory pork chops with sweet-tart apples, warm spices, and fresh vegetables, capturing the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use pork tenderloin or pork loin for a different texture. Just adjust your cooking time, as these cuts may cook faster than thick chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Type of Apples Should I Use?
For this recipe, tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully to balance the savory flavors. However, sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji can also be used if you prefer a sweeter dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and vegetable mixture in advance, then refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. Freshen up the flavors with a squeeze of lemon before serving!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, and consider adding a bit of stock or water to maintain moisture.