Maple Glazed Pork Chops with Spiced Apple-Pecan Sauce
Succulent pork chops with a sweet and sticky maple glaze, served with a deliciously spiced apple-pecan sauce. This dish offers a delightful blend of flavors including warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of Cajun spice. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2.
Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- 3.
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- 4.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned.
- 5.
Baste the pork chops with the maple glaze, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- 6.
While the pork chops are cooking, melt butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- 7.
Stir in the brown sugar and pecans, and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the apples are tender and the sauce is caramelized.
- 8.
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- 9.
Serve the pork chops topped with the spiced apple-pecan sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.