Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Apple and Pepper Gravy

Ingredients and Weight:

• 8 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick), 16 ounces each
• 1 large onion, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 2 large apples, peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 45-60 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
4. Pan-fry pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Remove pork chops from skillet and transfer to a baking dish.
6. Add onion, apples, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened about 5 minutes.
7. Pour in chicken broth and white wine (if using) and bring to a simmer.
8. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until liquid is reduced by half.
9. Off heat, whisk cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry.
10. Gradually whisk slurry into onion mixture until gravy thickens.
11. Return pork chops to the pan and pour gravy over them.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pork chops are cooked through and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
13. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450 per serving (without gravy)
• Fat: 25 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Cholesterol: 120 milligrams
• Sodium: 550 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Protein: 40 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Pan-fried pork chops with a rich and flavorful apple and pepper gravy.
• Tender and juicy meat with caramelized apples and aromatic spices.
• Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family meal.

User Comments:

• "Absolutely delicious! The pork chops were cooked to perfection and the gravy was so creamy and flavorful."
• "The apple and pepper combination was a brilliant idea. It gave the dish a unique and irresistible taste."
• "I'm not usually a pork chop fan, but this dish blew me away. The gravy is to die for."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork chops are cooked through.
• If you don't have dry white wine, you can substitute it with an extra ¼ cup of chicken broth.
• Make sure to rest the pork chops before slicing to prevent the juices from escaping.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.