Pork Chops With Dried Cherries
Pork chops with dried cherries and a flavorful port wine sauce create a tender, juicy dish with a hint of sweetness and savory richness. Perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion, this recipe combines fruitiness with aromatic herbs to delight the palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle pork chops lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
- Cook pork chops for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add shallots and thyme and cook for 1 minute.
- Add port wine, chicken broth, and dried cherries to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet and cook until heated through.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours prior to cooking. If you don't have port wine, red wine or apple cider can be good substitutes. Dried cherries can be replaced with dried cranberries or raisins if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pork chops alongside a creamy potato dish, such as Triple Cheese Potato Bake, or with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. A glass of the same port wine used in cooking pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the flavors of the cherries.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork chops should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops With Dried Cherries contains roughly 307 calories, with 10g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (73% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1660mg per serving (72% 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
What can I serve with pork chops?
These pork chops pair well with roasted vegetables or a side of couscous. For a heartier option, consider serving with mashed potatoes or the Delightfully Different Chicken Pie for a comforting meal.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for perfect doneness, ensuring they remain juicy and tender.
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).