| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 28g | 10g | 22g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 3g | 38g | 1.2g |
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I have to tell you, the first time I made Pork Chops with Marjoram and Apples, it was an instant hit in my household. The combination of savory and sweet flavors creates a harmonious balance that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Growing up in Texas, I was no stranger to hearty dishes, but this recipe adds a delightful twist with the use of fruit and aromatic spices.
### The Allure of Marjoram and Apples
What sets Pork Chops with Marjoram and Apples apart for me is the dynamic contrast between the tender pork chops and the juicy, slightly tart apples. I typically use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for this recipe, as they hold their shape well and add a lovely zing to the dish. Marjoram, often underutilized in home kitchens, lends a delicate and slightly sweet herbal note that pairs beautifully with both the pork and the apples. This herb not only boosts the flavor profile but also offers various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and aiding digestion.
### A Health-Conscious Choice
Beyond its delightful taste, this dish has some notable health merits. Pork, while often misunderstood, is a great source of lean protein, particularly when it’s kept to a reasonable portion size as in our recipe. Apples bring their array of vitamins and antioxidants to the table, helping to support overall health and well-being. The use of olive oil instead of heavier oils or fats also keeps the dish heart-healthy and light.
### Perfect Pairings
If you’re wondering what to serve alongside Pork Chops with Marjoram and Apples, you’ve got several great options. I often pair this dish with a simple side of steamed green beans or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. For something more filling, consider a serving of creamy mashed potatoes or even my favorite Southern-style cornbread.
This recipe shares similarities with other fruit-meat combos like Duck à l’Orange or Chicken Marbella, where the fruit element adds an unexpected but delightful twist. If you’re a fan of those, you’re likely to fall in love with this recipe too.
In cooking, the joy often lies in experimentation and finding combinations that make your taste buds sing. Pork Chops with Marjoram and Apples is one such serendipitous blend that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any meal. Give it a try and experience the magic for yourself!
For more ideas on dishes similar to this or ways you can use fruits in savory recipes, check out [Serious Eats](https://www.seriouseats.com) or [Epicurious](https://www.epicurious.com). Both are excellent resources for discovering the vast potential of your culinary adventures.
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What You’ll Need
- 6 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick, 6-8 oz each)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step Two
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
Step Three
Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced apples, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until the apples and onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step Four
Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, dried marjoram, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground allspice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Five
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the apple-onion mixture. Spoon some of the mixture over the pork chops.
Step Six
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step Seven
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve the pork chops with the apple-onion mixture spooned over the top.
