This Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish is a tasty combination of juicy pork and sweet apples, all seasoned with delightful spices. It’s simple to make and brings a warm, cozy feeling!
I love how the juicy pork and apples blend together, making each bite a little party for my taste buds. Serve it with rice or bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s both easy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in chops for extra flavor, but boneless works well too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts or thighs can substitute nicely.
Apples: Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great picks due to their firmness. If you need alternatives, try Fuji or Braeburn apples. Just avoid soft varieties that turn mushy.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add crunch, but frozen ones work in a pinch. If you prefer, snap peas or broccoli are also delicious alternatives.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If they’re unavailable, diced regular tomatoes will do, or you could use sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary offers a strong flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried rosemary can work, but use a bit less, as dried herbs are more potent.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect sear on your pork chops is key for flavor. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure your pork chops are at room temperature before cooking – about 30 minutes out of the fridge helps.
- Pat them dry well with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this ensures a good crust.
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding oil. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps maintain the heat. Sear for about 4 minutes each side without moving the chops too much.
Following these steps will give you beautifully browned, juicy pork chops with lots of flavor!
How to Make Mediterranean Pork & Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 pork chops (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and sliced into wedges
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Seasonings:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 25 to 30 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes to enjoy this scrumptious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice crust when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cinnamon. Make sure they are well-coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This step builds a nice flavor base for your dish!
4. Add the Apples and Green Beans:
Next, toss in the apple wedges and trimmed green beans. Cook them together for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the apples start to soften while keeping the green beans bright green and crunchy.
5. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Rosemary:
Now, add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes and the sprigs of fresh rosemary. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes. You’ll notice the wonderful Mediterranean aroma filling your kitchen!
6. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these are packed with flavor! Nestle the pork chops back into the skillet with the apple and veggie medley. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the apples are tender.
7. Final Touches:
After cooking, remove the rosemary sprigs. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a bit more balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops and spoon the apple, tomato, and green bean mixture over them or alongside. Garnish with fresh rosemary for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Pork & Apples!
This meal brings together sweet and savory flavors with the warmth of Mediterranean spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can use pork tenderloin, chicken thighs, or even turkey cutlets as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; thinner cuts will require less time to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Apples?
If you want to switch things up, consider using pears for a similar sweetness and texture. For a different flavor, try adding dried apricots or raisins. Just be mindful of their cooking times as they will soften more quickly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the pork and using firm tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas instead. Be sure to sauté the tofu or tempeh until golden before adding the other ingredients for added flavor!