Apple Butter Pork Chops (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Proteins

01 - Boneless pork chops (4 pieces)

→ Produce

02 - Large onion, thinly sliced (1 piece)
03 - Medium Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced (1 piece)

→ Seasoning

04 - Salt, to taste
05 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Sauce Components

06 - Apple butter (120 ml)
07 - Water (120 ml)
08 - Whole grain mustard (30 ml)

→ Fresh Herbs

09 - Fresh rosemary sprig (1 piece, optional)
10 - Fresh sage leaves (3 pieces, optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Generously season the boneless pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned pork chops for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the seared chops from the skillet and set them aside.
03 - Add the thinly sliced onion to the same skillet. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is softened and caramelized to a rich golden color.
04 - Incorporate the thinly sliced apple into the skillet with the caramelized onions. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the apple slices begin to soften slightly.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together the apple butter, water, and whole grain mustard until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
06 - Pour the prepared apple butter mixture over the onions and apples in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the simmering sauce. If using, add the fresh rosemary sprig and sage leaves.
07 - Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and continue to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Cook until the pork chops are thoroughly cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F), and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
08 - Serve the apple butter pork chops immediately with the sauce. This dish pairs exceptionally well with mashed potatoes or roasted seasonal vegetables.

# Notes:

01 - Adjust cooking time for pork chops based on their thickness; thicker cuts will require extended cooking.
02 - Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties such as Gala or Fuji, selecting one that maintains its shape during cooking.
03 - For a subtle kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
04 - Thyme or oregano can be substituted for rosemary and sage to vary the herbal notes.
05 - Transform this into a convenient sheet pan meal by roasting chopped potatoes, carrots, and apples alongside the pork chops. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

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