Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Pan Fried Pork with Sage Apricots recipe! Imagine perfectly seared, golden-brown pork chops topped with a luxurious sage and apricot sauce that will make your taste buds dance with delight. This American-style dish is not just a meal – it's a flavor journey that combines the rich, savory goodness of pork with the sweet and aromatic notes of dried apricots and fresh sage.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 pork chops, 1 cup of dried apricots, 2 tablespoons of fresh sage (chopped), 1/4 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear. Season both sides of each chop generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, which indicates it's ready for cooking.
- Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Flip the pork chops and reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to rest.
- In the same skillet, add the dried apricots and chopped sage. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apricots begin to soften and the sage becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the 1/4 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits from the pork. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the apricot and sage mixture over the top. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pork chops warm, topped with the sage apricot mixture, alongside your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Enjoy your delicious Pan Fried Pork with Sage Apricots!
Tips
- Pat your pork chops completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear!
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – 145°F is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked, juicy pork.
- Don't rush the cooking process. Let the pork chops develop a beautiful crust by resisting the urge to move them around in the pan.
- Allow the pork to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
- For an extra flavor boost, try toasting the sage briefly in the pan before adding the apricots to release its full aromatic potential.
- Choose high-quality, thick-cut pork chops for the best results – they'll stay juicier and have a more impressive presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 201kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg