Pork Chops With Apricots
Juicy pork chops are glazed with apricots and brown sugar, creating a sweet and savory dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Quickly brown the pork chops in butter in a saute pan.
- Lightly salt and pepper the chops to taste.
- Arrange the browned chops tightly in a glass baking dish.
- Cover the chops with apricot puree.
- Bake at 325°F for 25 minutes or until done.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with brown sugar, and return to the broiler for 5 minutes until glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in white wine and chopped apricots for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have dried apricots, try using dried peaches or figs as a substitute. Ensure the pork chops are not overcrowded in the baking dish; this helps them cook evenly. Adjust the sugar glazing based on your sweetness preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops with a side of Portuguese Green Beans for a balanced meal. A light salad or Quick German Potato Salad also complements the dish well. Drizzle any remaining apricot puree over the top for added flavor. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine to enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain moisture, preventing the chops from becoming dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops With Apricots contains roughly 581 calories, with 10g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 533mg per serving (23% 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 fresh apricots instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use fresh apricots, but you'll need to adjust the quantity and cooking time. Fresh apricots are juicier, so you may want to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe. You can also blend them into a puree before topping the pork chops.
What should I serve with pork chops with apricots?
Pork chops with apricots pair wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Consider serving with Quick German Potato Salad for a hearty option. A light white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
How can I tell when the pork chops are done cooking?
Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The meat should be juicy and slightly pink in the center. If you prefer your pork more well-done, cook it to 160°F.
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).