Gala Apple and Honey Glazed Pork Chops Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
- 2 Gala apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Basting brush

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add pork chops to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.

5. Remove pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

6. In the same skillet, add sliced apples, garlic, thyme, honey, and apple cider vinegar.

7. Cook the apple mixture for 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.

8. Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the apple mixture over the top.

9. Use a basting brush to coat the pork chops with the apple and honey glaze.

10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the pork chops are cooked through.

11. Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 412
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 105mg
Sugar: 22g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Gala apples can be substituted with any other sweet apple variety.
- Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil or canola oil.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Variations:
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple mixture for added crunch.
- Use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in pork chops.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brown the pork chops before baking to create a flavorful crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Storage instructions:
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the pork chops in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, place the pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the pork chops on a platter with the apple mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.

Garnishes:
Fresh thyme sprigs

Pairings:
- Roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash.
- A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and honey.
- Steamed green beans with garlic and lemon.
- Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of water or apple juice to thin it out.
- If the pork chops are not browning, increase the heat on the skillet.

Food safety advice:
- Always wash your hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.

Food history:
Pork chops with apple sauce is a classic combination that dates back to colonial times in America. The addition of honey and apple cider vinegar in this recipe adds a modern twist to this classic dish.

Flavor profiles:
Sweet, tangy, and savory.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the pork chops with a side of roasted vegetables and a glass of white wine.

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Taste: Sweet, Savory, Tangy, Juicy