Description
This Strawberry Balsamic Pork Chops recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for an easy Valentine’s dinner. Juicy bone-in pork chops are seared to perfection and topped with a luscious strawberry and balsamic vinegar glaze that combines sweetness and tanginess, making for a romantic and delicious meal prepared in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pork Chops
- 2 pieces bone-in pork chops
Glaze
- 1 cup strawberries (fresh or thawed frozen, sliced)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon butter (dairy or dairy-free)
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (optional, minced)
- Seasonings of choice (salt, pepper, or favorite spices)
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Begin by heating a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil to coat the pan and prepare it for searing the pork chops evenly.
- Season Pork Chops: Generously season both sides of the pork chops with your favorite spices, such as salt, pepper, and any others you prefer to enhance the flavor.
- Sear Pork Chops: Place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes to develop a beautiful golden-brown sear and ensure the meat is cooked through.
- Rest the Pork Chops: Carefully remove the pork chops from the skillet and tent them loosely with foil to keep them warm and allow the juices to redistribute.
- Prepare the Glaze: In the same skillet, add the sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and butter. Optionally add minced garlic to enhance the flavor profile.
- Simmer the Glaze: Stir the ingredients gently and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens into a rich, glossy glaze.
- Serve: Pour the thickened strawberry balsamic glaze generously over the rested pork chops and serve immediately for a delicious and romantic meal.
Notes
- Bone-in pork chops are preferred for juiciness and flavor, but boneless can be used if desired.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- Maple syrup is a great substitute for honey if you prefer a different sweetness profile or need a vegan option.
- Use dairy-free butter to make this recipe suitable for dairy-sensitive diets.
- Resting the pork chops after cooking helps them retain juiciness.
