Cranberry Glazed Pork Chops: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Cranberry glazed pork chops are a fantastic way to elevate a simple pork chop dinner into something truly special. The tartness of the cranberries perfectly complements the richness of the pork, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe, Cranberry Pork Chops II, builds upon classic preparations, incorporating a few extra steps to ensure incredibly tender and flavorful chops, along with a vibrant and delicious cranberry sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a festive holiday dinner.

## Why This Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because:

* **Tender Pork:** We use a simple brine to ensure the pork chops are incredibly juicy and tender, preventing them from drying out during cooking.
* **Flavorful Glaze:** The cranberry glaze is made from scratch with fresh or frozen cranberries, orange zest and juice, and a touch of spice, creating a vibrant and balanced sauce.
* **Easy to Make:** While it involves a few steps, the recipe is surprisingly easy to follow and doesn’t require any special equipment.
* **Versatile:** This recipe can be easily adapted to your preferences. You can adjust the sweetness of the glaze, add different spices, or use different cuts of pork.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Pork Chops:

* **4 (6-8 ounce) Bone-in or boneless pork chops:** Look for chops that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking. Bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful, but boneless chops cook faster.
* **4 cups water:** For the brine.
* **1/4 cup kosher salt:** Essential for the brine.
* **1/4 cup sugar:** Balances the salt in the brine and adds a touch of sweetness.
* **1 teaspoon black peppercorns:** Adds a subtle peppery note to the pork.
* **1 teaspoon dried thyme:** An aromatic herb that complements the pork.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For searing the pork chops.
* **Salt and pepper:** To taste, for seasoning after searing.

### For the Cranberry Glaze:

* **1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries:** Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones.
* **1/2 cup orange juice:** Freshly squeezed is best, but store-bought works too.
* **1/4 cup orange zest:** Adds a bright citrusy flavor.
* **1/4 cup brown sugar:** Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness.
* **2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar:** Adds a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness.
* **1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon:** Adds warmth and spice.
* **1/4 teaspoon ground cloves:** Adds a deeper, more complex spice note.
* **1/4 cup water (optional):** To adjust the consistency of the glaze.

## Equipment

* Large bowl or container for brining
* Large skillet or cast-iron skillet
* Small saucepan
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Tongs
* Instant-read thermometer

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Brining the Pork Chops (Highly Recommended)

Brining is the key to juicy and tender pork chops. It infuses the meat with moisture and flavor, preventing it from drying out during cooking. If you’re short on time, you can skip the brining step, but I highly recommend it for the best results.

1. **Prepare the Brine:** In a large bowl or container, combine the water, salt, sugar, black peppercorns, and dried thyme. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
2. **Submerge the Pork Chops:** Place the pork chops in the brine, making sure they are fully submerged. If necessary, weigh them down with a plate or a resealable bag filled with water.
3. **Refrigerate:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Do not brine for longer than 2 hours, as the pork chops can become too salty.

### Making the Cranberry Glaze

The cranberry glaze can be made while the pork chops are brining. It’s a simple process that involves simmering the ingredients together until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. **Simmer:** Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. **Adjust Consistency (Optional):** If the glaze is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue simmering until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the glaze and adjust the sweetness or tartness as needed. You can add a little more brown sugar for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon juice for tartness.
5. **Set Aside:** Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

### Cooking the Pork Chops

Once the pork chops are brined and the glaze is ready, it’s time to cook the pork chops. Searing them in a hot skillet creates a beautiful crust and seals in the juices. Then, we’ll finish cooking them in the oven or on the stovetop, basting them with the cranberry glaze for a delicious and flavorful finish.

1. **Preheat the Oven (Optional):** If you’re using the oven to finish cooking the pork chops, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Remove Pork Chops from Brine:** Remove the pork chops from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. This is important for achieving a good sear.
3. **Season the Pork Chops:** Season the pork chops with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Sear the Pork Chops:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned.
5. **Baste with Glaze:** Reduce the heat to medium and begin basting the pork chops with the cranberry glaze. Continue cooking, basting frequently, for another 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium, or 160°F (71°C) for well-done. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.

*If you opt for an oven finish:* After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the pork chops reach the desired internal temperature, basting once or twice with the glaze.

6. **Rest:** Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful pork.

## Serving Suggestions

Cranberry glazed pork chops are delicious served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Mashed potatoes:** A classic pairing that complements the sweet and savory flavors of the pork.
* **Roasted vegetables:** Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or carrots are all great choices.
* **Quinoa or rice:** A healthy and flavorful grain that soaks up the delicious cranberry glaze.
* **Green beans:** A simple and refreshing side dish.
* **Salad:** A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the pork.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t overcook the pork chops:** Overcooked pork chops can be dry and tough. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they are cooked to the correct internal temperature.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the pork chops from searing properly. Cook the pork chops in batches if necessary.
* **Baste frequently:** Basting the pork chops with the cranberry glaze ensures they are coated in a delicious and flavorful sauce.
* **Let the pork chops rest:** Letting the pork chops rest before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful pork.
* **Use fresh, high-quality ingredients:** Using fresh cranberries and high-quality pork chops will result in the best possible flavor.

## Variations

* **Add spices:** Experiment with different spices in the cranberry glaze, such as ginger, nutmeg, or allspice.
* **Use different fruits:** You can substitute other fruits for the cranberries, such as raspberries, blueberries, or cherries.
* **Add nuts:** Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cranberry glaze for added texture and flavor.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry glaze for a little heat.
* **Use different cuts of pork:** This recipe works well with other cuts of pork, such as pork tenderloin or pork loin roast. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

## Make Ahead

The cranberry glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pork chops can also be brined ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the pork chops from the brine and pat them dry.

## Storage

Leftover cranberry glazed pork chops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

## Recipe Card

**Cranberry Glazed Pork Chops II**

A sweet and savory delight with tender pork chops and a vibrant cranberry glaze. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a festive holiday dinner.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Brine Time:** 30 minutes – 2 hours
**Cook Time:** 20-25 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour – 2 hours 30 minutes

**Yield:** 4 servings

### Ingredients:

#### For the Pork Chops:

* 4 (6-8 ounce) pork chops
* 4 cups water
* 1/4 cup kosher salt
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

#### For the Cranberry Glaze:

* 1 (12-ounce) bag cranberries
* 1/2 cup orange juice
* 1/4 cup orange zest
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 cup water (optional)

### Instructions:

1. **Brine the Pork Chops:** Combine water, salt, sugar, peppercorns, and thyme in a large bowl. Submerge pork chops and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
2. **Make the Cranberry Glaze:** Combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, brown sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens. Adjust consistency with water if needed.
3. **Cook the Pork Chops:** Remove pork chops from brine and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Reduce heat, baste with cranberry glaze, and cook for 5-7 minutes more, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium or 160°F (71°C) for well-done. For oven finish, transfer to 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.
4. **Rest and Serve:** Let pork chops rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite sides.

## Enjoy!

This Cranberry Glazed Pork Chops II recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With a little planning and attention to detail, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors!