Savory Apple Cider-Infused Pork Chops
Indulge in the succulent flavors of Savory Apple Cider-Infused Pork Chops, cooked to perfection in a pressure cooker. This recipe combines the rich taste of bone-in pork chops with the sweet and warming notes of apple cider and mulling spices, creating a dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. With a cooking time of just 17 minutes under pressure, this meal is both quick and delicious, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Pair it with mashed potatoes or root vegetables for a complete meal that's sure to impress.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Chops
6 (Bone-in, 3/4-inch thick)
Seasoning Salt
2 teaspoons (Such as Lowery's)
Vegetable Oil
2 tablespoons (For browning)
Dried Apple Slices
6-12 (Press onto chops)
Aspen Mulling Spices
2 tablespoons (For seasoning)
Apple Cider
1 cup (For cooking)
Butter
2 tablespoons (For sauce)
Flour
2 tablespoons (For thickening the sauce)
Instructions
1
Start by enhancing the flavor of the pork chops: sprinkle seasoning salt generously on both sides and let them rest for about 3-4 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
2
In your pressure cooker, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork chops, browning them on both sides until they achieve a golden-brown color. After browning, transfer the chops to a plate and set aside.
3
Prepare the pressure cooker by placing the steamer basket inside. Take the dried apple slices and press 1 or 2 slices onto each chop. Sprinkle the aspen mulling spices over the chops, enhancing their flavor.
4
Arrange the pork chops upright in the basket, sandwiching the apple slices between them to infuse the flavors while cooking.
5
Carefully pour the apple cider over the packed chops, ensuring even coverage, then secure the lid of the pressure cooker tightly.
6
Increase the heat to bring the cooker to high pressure (15 lbs). Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain this pressure, as per your pressure cooker’s instructions. Cook for 17 minutes.
7
After the cooking time is complete, remove the pressure cooker from heat and allow the pressure to drop naturally for approximately 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.
8
Using tongs, transfer the cooked chops to a serving platter and keep them warm by covering with foil.
9
In a microwave-safe measuring cup, melt the butter for about 30 seconds in the microwave. Stir in the flour with a whisk until a smooth roux forms, then microwave for an additional 40 seconds, whisking at the end.
10
Take a small amount of the cooking liquid from the pot and slowly whisk it into the roux to create a smooth mixture. Gradually add this roux back into the pot, stirring well, and bring to a boil, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
11
Pour the thickened sauce over the pork chops and serve warm, enjoying the savory and sweet flavors combined in this delightful dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Apple Cider-Infused Pork Chops?
This is a succulent pressure-cooked dish that combines bone-in pork chops with the sweet and warming notes of apple cider and mulling spices.
What cut of pork is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using six bone-in pork chops that are approximately 3/4-inch thick.
How long do the pork chops need to cook under pressure?
The pork chops should be cooked for 17 minutes once the cooker reaches high pressure (15 lbs).
What equipment is needed for this recipe?
You will need a pressure cooker with a steamer basket, tongs, a serving platter, and a microwave-safe measuring cup for the sauce.
How should I season the pork chops before cooking?
Sprinkle seasoning salt generously on both sides and let them rest for 3 to 4 minutes to absorb the flavor.
What type of seasoning salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests using a seasoning salt such as Lowery's.
Why do I need to brown the pork chops?
Browning the chops in vegetable oil over medium heat helps them achieve a golden-brown color and enhances the overall flavor.
How do I use the dried apple slices?
Press 1 or 2 dried apple slices onto each pork chop before placing them in the steamer basket.
What are Aspen Mulling Spices used for?
Two tablespoons of Aspen Mulling Spices are sprinkled over the chops to provide sweet and warming notes.
How should the chops be arranged in the pressure cooker?
Arrange the pork chops upright in the steamer basket, sandwiching the apple slices between them.
How much apple cider is required?
One cup of apple cider should be poured carefully over the packed chops.
What is the correct pressure setting for this recipe?
The pressure cooker should be brought to high pressure, specifically 15 lbs.
How long is the pressure release process?
Allow the pressure to drop naturally for approximately 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure.
How do I make the sauce for the pork chops?
The sauce is made by creating a roux from melted butter and flour, then whisking in the cooking liquid from the pot.
How do I prepare the roux?
Melt butter for 30 seconds, whisk in flour, microwave for another 40 seconds, and then slowly whisk in a small amount of the cooking liquid.
How do I thicken the final sauce?
Add the roux mixture back into the pressure cooker pot, bring it to a boil, and whisk continuously until it thickens.
What are the recommended side dishes?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or root vegetables.
Is this a quick recipe for weeknights?
Yes, with only 17 minutes of cooking time under pressure, it is a great option for busy weeknights.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
This recipe requires 8 ingredients: pork chops, seasoning salt, vegetable oil, dried apple slices, mulling spices, apple cider, butter, and flour.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
While bone-in is recommended for flavor, boneless chops can be used, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I use fresh apples instead of dried?
Dried apple slices are recommended as they hold their shape better, but fresh slices can be used for a softer texture.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe calls for 6 pork chops, typically serving 4 to 6 people.
What if I don't have Aspen Mulling Spices?
You can substitute with a blend of cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel to mimic the flavor profile.
Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, apple juice works as a substitute, though apple cider offers a deeper, more complex flavor.
How do I keep the chops warm while finishing the sauce?
Transfer them to a serving platter and cover them with aluminum foil while you thicken the sauce.
What kind of oil should I use for browning?
Two tablespoons of vegetable oil are recommended for browning the chops.
Is this recipe suitable for autumn?
Yes, the combination of apple cider and mulling spices makes it an ideal fall recipe.
How do I ensure the sauce isn't lumpy?
Whisk the flour and butter into a smooth roux and slowly incorporate the cooking liquid before adding it back to the main pot.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
This specific recipe is designed for a pressure cooker, but the flavors would translate well to a slow cooker with an adjusted time of 6-8 hours on low.
What is the texture of the pork chops like?
Because they are pressure-cooked with cider, they result in a very succulent and tender texture.