Fall Harvest Pork Chops: Apples, Onions, and Sweet Potatoes

As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, there’s no better way to embrace the flavors of fall than with a hearty and comforting meal. This recipe for pork chops with apples, onions, and sweet potatoes is the perfect embodiment of autumn’s bounty. The sweetness of the apples and sweet potatoes complements the savory pork chops beautifully, while the onions add a touch of sharpness that balances the flavors perfectly. This dish is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Here’s why it works so well:

• Pork Chops: The star of the show, pork chops provide a rich, savory base. Choose bone-in pork chops for added flavor and moisture.
• Apples: Apples contribute sweetness, tartness, and moisture to the dish. They soften beautifully during cooking, creating a delicious sauce.
• Onions: Onions add a pungent, savory depth of flavor. When caramelized, they become sweet and tender, complementing the other ingredients.
• Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a creamy sweetness and a vibrant color. They are also packed with nutrients, making this a healthy and satisfying meal.
• Herbs and Spices: A blend of herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, and paprika, adds warmth and complexity to the dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pork chop recipe:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a mouthwatering pork chop dinner:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This will help them to brown nicely. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat both sides of the pork chops evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and have a nice crust. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. They will continue to cook slightly as they rest.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and slightly caramelized. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The onions should be translucent and have a golden-brown color.

Step 4: Add the Apples and Sweet Potatoes

Add the sliced apples and diced sweet potatoes to the skillet with the onions. Stir to combine. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the apples and sweet potatoes are slightly softened. The apples should start to release their juices, and the sweet potatoes should be tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Herbs

Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pan

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to the sauce.

Step 7: Return the Pork Chops to the Skillet

Place the seared pork chops back into the skillet, nestling them among the apples, onions, and sweet potatoes. Make sure the pork chops are partially submerged in the liquid.

Step 8: Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 9: Add Apple Cider Vinegar

Remove the lid from the skillet and stir in the apple cider vinegar. This will add a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the apples and sweet potatoes.

Step 10: Finish with Butter (Optional)

If desired, stir in a tablespoon of butter to add extra richness and shine to the sauce. This is optional but highly recommended.

Step 11: Serve

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the apple, onion, and sweet potato mixture over the pork chops. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Pork Chops: Look for bone-in pork chops that are about 1 inch thick. Bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful and moist than boneless chops.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the pork chops, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will prevent them from browning properly. If necessary, sear the pork chops in batches.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the pork chops are cooked to the correct temperature, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, feel free to use them instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.

Variations

Here are a few variations you can try to customize this recipe to your liking:

• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or parsnips.
• Use Different Apples: Experiment with different types of apples, such as Granny Smith or Fuji apples. Each type of apple will add a slightly different flavor to the dish.
• Add Bacon: For extra smoky flavor, add cooked bacon to the skillet along with the onions.
• Use Maple Syrup: For a sweeter sauce, add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the skillet along with the apple cider vinegar.
• Make it a One-Pan Meal: You can also cook this dish in the oven for a truly hands-off meal. Sear the pork chops in a skillet, then transfer them to a baking dish along with the apples, onions, and sweet potatoes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Serving Suggestions

This pork chop dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Quinoa or rice
• Green salad
• Crusty bread

Nutritional Information

The nutritional information for this recipe will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and the serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is:

• Calories: 400-500
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Storage and Reheating

Leftover pork chops with apples, onions, and sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Conclusion

This recipe for pork chops with apples, onions, and sweet potatoes is a delicious and comforting way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a dish that anyone can make and enjoy. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to savor the taste of autumn!