Apple Cider Brined Pork Chops are a flavorful and juicy dish that showcases the perfect blend of sweet and savory notes. The pork chops are soaked in a brine made from apple cider, salt, sugar, and aromatic spices like rosemary, thyme, and garlic. This brining process infuses the meat with moisture and a subtle sweetness from the cider, enhancing the natural flavor of the pork. Once brined, the chops are typically grilled, roasted, or pan-seared to achieve a golden-brown crust while remaining tender and succulent inside. The result is a deliciously balanced dish where the sweetness of the apple cider complements the savory richness of the pork, making it a perfect choice for an autumn-inspired meal.
-
Fancy Pecan Pieces, 6oz bags$22.95 – $83.95 -
Fancy Pecan Halves, 6oz bags$24.95 – $92.50 -
Alonso Olive Oil Arbequina 500ml bottle$19.00
Apple Cider Brined Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups apple cider, divided
- 2 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp whole grain or dijion mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, divided
- 4 pork chops, boneless
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 pound brussels sprouts, washed and halved
- 1 large honeycrisp apple, sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup cider, salt, mustard, cider vinegar, ginger, garlic, and 2-3 sprigs of rosemary in a microwave proof bowl. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until salt is dissolved. Cool completely (can add a handful of ice to make cooling process faster).
- Add pork to cider mixture and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
- Once marinate complete, dry pork off and season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in large saute or cast iron pan. Sear pork on each side for at least 2-3 minutes or until done. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Heat additional 1 tbsp. oil over medium-high heat in pan. Season brussels sprouts with salt and pepper and sear cut side down in pan. Add apple slices. Cook for about 5-8 minutes or until sprouts and apples are charred. Deglaze pan with ½ cup apple cider and chicken broth.
- Add pork chops back to pan and heat until warmed throughout, sauce is reduced slightly, and brussels sprouts are softened. Top with additional rosemary springs and toasted pecans. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Pat pork dry after soaking in brine to ensure a crisp sear. Flip pork only when it naturally releases from the pan.
- Sear Brussels sprouts cut side down in a hot pan, and don’t move them until they release on their own.
- For a thicker sauce, thicken with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon cold water) and add to the simmering sauce.
- Cook pork chops to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!