These juicy pork chops come with a sweet and tangy raspberry glaze that makes every bite pop with flavor! It’s a fun twist on a classic dish that’s sure to impress.
I love making this meal, especially when I’m short on time. The glaze is quick to whip up, and it gives the chops a fancy touch without all the fuss. Plus, who can resist that color? 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture, but boneless works too if that’s what you have. Look for chops about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries are ideal, but frozen ones are a great backup. Just remember to thaw and drain them first. If you prefer a different berry, try blackberries or strawberries!
Balsamic Vinegar: It adds a rich, tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch, but you may want to add a little extra honey for sweetness.
Honey: This helps balance the tartness of the raspberries. Maple syrup or agave syrup is a suitable substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option!
How Can I Get a Perfectly Glazed Pork Chop?
The key to a great glaze is letting it simmer to bring out deep flavors. After searing the pork, keep an eye on the heat while cooking the glaze—medium heat is ideal to avoid burning the garlic.
- Start by sautéing the garlic until fragrant, but don’t let it turn brown.
- Add the raspberries and various ingredients, then let it reduce while mashing the berries.
- Return the chops to the skillet to absorb all that delicious glaze.
Remember, adjust seasoning before serving! A bit more salt or honey can make all the difference. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Raspberry Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Raspberry Glaze:
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Sides:
- Roasted potato wedges or your favorite side for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that’s quick and impressive!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by drying the pork chops with paper towels. This will help them get that nice, golden crust when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
3. Make the Raspberry Glaze:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Combine the Glaze Ingredients:
Add in the raspberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and the sprig of thyme. Gently stir everything together to combine the flavors.
5. Simmer for a Thick Glaze:
Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Mash some of the raspberries with the back of a spoon to create a beautiful, thick glaze that will coat your pork chops perfectly.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the thyme sprig from the glaze and taste it! Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or honey if desired.
7. Coat the Pork Chops:
Now, return the pork chops to the pan and spoon that luscious raspberry glaze over them to coat them well. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure they’re heated through and the glaze sets nicely.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Transfer the pork chops to plates, spoon any extra glaze on top, and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Serve them up with roasted potatoes or your favorite side for a complete meal.
Enjoy the perfect combination of savory and fruity with these beautifully glazed pork chops! They’ll be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Raspberries for the Glaze?
Absolutely! If using frozen raspberries, just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. They’ll work perfectly for the glaze and still give that sweet-tart flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, try using red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Just keep in mind that you may want to add a little more honey to balance the acidity!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or a bit more honey if the glaze has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently in a saucepan before serving with the freshly cooked pork chops for a quick dinner!
