Delicious Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (or boneless if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter for extra richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, adds a nice depth of flavor)
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional, for a little warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Prep the pork chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper. -
Make the glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, cinnamon, and ginger (if using). Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined. -
Cook the pork chops:
Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. The pork should be cooked through, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If your chops are thick, you may need to cook them a bit longer or finish them in the oven. -
Make the glaze:
Once the pork chops are cooked, pour the brown sugar mixture over the pork chops in the skillet. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chops. Spoon some of the glaze over the pork chops to ensure they’re well-coated. -
Serve:
Transfer the pork chops to serving plates and drizzle the remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color (optional).
Tips & Variations:
- Add some heat: If you like a little spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet-and-spicy kick.
- Caramelized onions: Add some sliced onions to the skillet when you sear the pork chops for a savory-sweet addition.
- Side dishes: Serve these with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
- For a deeper flavor: If you prefer a richer sauce, add 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the glaze while simmering, which will give the sauce a bit more depth and make it perfect for spooning over potatoes or rice.
These Delicious Brown Sugar Pork Chops are perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The sweet, tangy glaze and juicy pork chops will be a hit with everyone at the table! Enjoy!