Apple Butter Pork Chops Delight (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pork

01 - 4 boneless pork chops (2.5 cm thick)

→ Aromatics and Seasonings

02 - 1 large onion, thinly sliced
03 - 1 medium Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
04 - Salt, to taste
05 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
06 - 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
07 - 3 fresh sage leaves (optional)

→ Sauce Base

08 - 120 ml apple butter
09 - 120 ml water
10 - 30 ml whole grain mustard

# Instructions:

01 - Season the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms.
03 - Remove the seared pork chops from the skillet and set aside. Add the thinly sliced onion and apple to the same skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and lightly caramelized.
04 - Stir in the apple butter, water, and whole grain mustard. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 - Return the seared pork chops to the skillet. Incorporate the rosemary and sage sprigs, if using. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops are thoroughly cooked (internal temperature reaches 63°C) and the sauce has slightly thickened.
06 - Serve the Apple Butter Pork Chops immediately with desired accompaniments such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.

# Notes:

01 - Adjust cooking time based on pork chop thickness; thicker cuts may require extended simmering.
02 - Experiment with different apple varieties; Granny Smith offers a tart profile, while Fuji provides extra sweetness.
03 - For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
04 - Thyme or oregano can be used as alternatives to rosemary and sage.
05 - This dish pairs exceptionally well with roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, or a simple green salad.