This Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish is a delightful mix of tender pork, sweet apples, and zesty spices. It brings a unique flavor that will surely impress!
I love how the sweet and savory come together in this meal. Plus, it’s easy to whip up during a busy weeknight—everyone will be asking for seconds! 🍏🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Chops: These are the stars of the dish! If you can’t find loin chops, boneless pork chops or chicken thighs work as great substitutes. Chicken will cook faster, so watch that cooking time!
Apples: I recommend Granny Smith for a tart flavor, but Honeycrisp offers sweetness, too. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pears for a different twist!
Cranberries: These add a burst of tartness. You can skip them if you don’t have any or use raisins for a sweeter profile. They won’t have the same tang, but it’ll still taste great!
Olive Oil: This is the base for cooking. If you’re out, vegetable oil or canola oil will work. Don’t use extra virgin olive oil for frying as it has a lower smoke point.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, try agave syrup. Just remember to adjust to your taste!
How Do I Get the Pork Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to make sure they turn out juicy and tender:
- Pat dry the chops before seasoning; this helps the spices stick and gives a nice sear.
- Sear them in a hot skillet for that golden brown crust! Aim for 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- Cook them on medium-low after adding the other ingredients to ensure they don’t dry out; this gentle heat keeps them moist.
- Use a meat thermometer—145°F (63°C) is your sweet spot for juicy pork!
With these techniques, you’ll have deliciously cooked pork every time!
How to Make Mediterranean Pork & Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4 pork loin chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Vegetables and Fruits:
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced into wedges (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (optional)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or rosemary
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 20 minutes to cook, making it a speedy and satisfying meal. In total, expect about 35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Pork Ready:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano to flavor the meat beautifully.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Now, in the same skillet where you cooked the pork, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 2 minutes, until they are fragrant and softened up a bit.
4. Add the Apples and Carrots:
Next, toss in the sliced apples, carrots, and cranberries (if using). Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the apples start to soften.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth or white wine, together with honey and balsamic vinegar. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape the yummy bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for extra flavor!
6. Combine and Cook:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them right on top of the apples and veggies. Add the sprigs of rosemary, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the apples are tender.
7. Serve It Up:
Once cooked, remove the rosemary sprigs from the skillet. Transfer the pork chops, apples, and vegetables onto plates. Don’t forget to spoon some of that delicious pan sauce over everything!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or rosemary on top. Serve the Mediterranean Pork & Apples warm, ideally with a side of couscous or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
This dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, and I’m sure it will become a favorite around your table!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! If you can’t find pork loin chops, feel free to substitute with boneless pork chops, tenderloin, or even chicken thighs for a different flavor. Just adjust cooking times as necessary since different cuts may vary in thickness.
What Type of Apples Should I Use?
Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best, as they hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice tartness. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, Fuji or Gala apples are also great options!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the pork marinade and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the instructions starting from searing the pork.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on the stove over low heat to maintain the texture of the pork and fruit. You can also add a splash of broth or water to help revive the dish!
