Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Special equipment needed:
- Air fryer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. Season the pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. While the pork chops are cooking, make the applesauce. In a small saucepan, combine the applesauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
5. Serve the pork chops with the applesauce on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
- Air fryer: 400°F
- Internal temperature of pork chops: 145°F
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork chops: boneless pork chops or chicken breasts can be used instead.
- Applesauce: if unsweetened applesauce is not available, use regular applesauce and reduce the amount of honey.
- Honey: maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead.
- Apple cider vinegar: white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used instead.
- Cinnamon: nutmeg or allspice can be used instead.
Variations:
- Add sliced onions and/or apples to the air fryer basket with the pork chops for added flavor.
- Use a different seasoning blend for the pork chops, such as Italian seasoning or Cajun seasoning.
- Make a savory sauce instead of applesauce by using chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and cream.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover pork chops and applesauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pork chops in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
- Reheat the applesauce in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pork chops on a bed of mashed sweet potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed green beans
- Side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork chops are not cooked through, continue cooking in the air fryer in 2-3 minute increments until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- If the applesauce is too thick, add a splash of water or apple juice to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Always wash your hands and utensils before handling raw meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to a safe temperature of 145°F.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Pork chops and applesauce is a classic American dish that dates back to the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
- The pork chops are savory and slightly spicy, while the applesauce is sweet and tangy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pork chops and applesauce on individual plates or on a platter for family-style serving.
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