This Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish is a tasty blend of juicy pork and sweet apples, seasoned with herbs and spices that will make your taste buds dance! 🍏
It’s super simple to make, and the mix of flavors is just delightful. I love serving it with rice or bread to soak up all the yummy juices—it’s always a hit at my dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are perfect here for tenderness. If you prefer, you can use bone-in chops, but they might need a bit more cooking time. Alternatively, chicken thighs or breasts can work, although the cooking time will differ.
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith for a nice tartness or Golden Delicious for sweetness. If you can’t find these, any firm apple will do, just avoid very soft types as they may turn mushy.
Vegetables: Red bell pepper adds sweetness and color. You can substitute with yellow or orange for a similar flavor, or even zucchini for a twist. Green beans can be replaced with broccoli or asparagus if you prefer.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or cayenne for some heat works too. Ground cinnamon adds warmth, but you can skip it if you’re unsure about the flavor combo.
Broth/Wine: Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth works for a lighter option. If you prefer to skip the alcohol, stick with broth or water instead.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
To ensure juicy pork chops, proper cooking time and temperature are crucial. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by bringing your pork chops to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chops; this helps seal in the juices.
- Aim for browning them on medium-high heat for about 3 minutes on each side. Look for a golden crust.
- Remember to include the resting time! Once cooked, let the chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps them juicy.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked pork every time!
How to Make Mediterranean Pork & Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and sliced into wedges
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking Liquid:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
For Garnish:
- Fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. So, in about an hour, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, season your pork chops with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cinnamon, oregano, and cumin. Make sure they’re evenly coated for the best flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. After browning, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic smells delightful.
4. Add Vegetables and Apples:
Now, it’s time to add the potatoes, apple wedges, red bell pepper, and green beans to the skillet. Stir it all together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. You want the vegetables and apples to start softening.
5. Deglaze and Combine:
Next, pour in the chicken broth or white wine. This will help lift the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, adding flavor to your dish. Stir it all up!
6. Return Pork to the Skillet:
Place the browned pork chops back in the skillet, tucking them in among the vegetables and apples.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. The pork will be ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are nice and tender.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, remove the skillet from the oven. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for an extra pop of flavor. Serve the dish hot, spooning some of those delicious pan juices over the pork and veggies!
Enjoy your Mediterranean Pork & Apples with a lovely side of crusty bread or rice to soak up all the yummy flavors!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless pork chops are recommended for their tenderness, you can also use bone-in chops for added flavor. Alternatively, pork loin or tenderloin can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may require less time in the oven.
Can I Substitute the Apples?
Definitely! If you can’t find Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, any firm apple will work. Just avoid very soft varieties, as they might become mushy during cooking. Pears can also be a delicious alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist.
What Can I Serve With Mediterranean Pork & Apples?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even quinoa. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
