Pork Chops Braised With Prunes
Tender pork chops braised with sweet prunes and caramelized onions create a rich, flavorful dish perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Buy pork chops.
- Slowly brown chops on both sides in a preheated skillet for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Add sliced onions, prunes, water, brown sugar, and cider vinegar to the skillet.
- Cover and cook over low heat about 1 hour or until the pork chops are tender.
- Serve on a warm platter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork chops in cider vinegar and brown sugar for a couple of hours before cooking. If you don't have prunes, apricots or dried figs can serve as delicious substitutes. To enhance the dish, add a sprig of rosemary or thyme while cooking. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised pork chops on a warm platter with the onions and prunes spooned over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with Aunt Ruth'S Creamed Potatoes or a side of steamed green beans for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider serving with a crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth, covering until warmed through to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops Braised With Prunes contains roughly 236 calories, with 28g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 783mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used in this recipe. They will add more flavor and moisture during cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if the chops are thicker, as they may require a little longer to become tender.
What can I serve with these pork chops?
These pork chops pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad or coleslaw can add a nice crunch and balance to the meal.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can braise the pork chops a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This method can even enhance the taste, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).