These Raspberry Glazed Pork Chops are a tasty treat! The sweet and tangy raspberry sauce coats the juicy chops perfectly, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Who knew pork could be so exciting? I love serving these with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that delicious glaze. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for this recipe as the bone adds flavor. If you prefer boneless chops, they work too, but cook them for a shorter time. You could also use chicken if you’re looking for a poultry option.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries provide a delightful tartness. If they aren’t in season, frozen raspberries can be a great substitute. Just thaw them before use. You can also experiment with other berries like blackberries or strawberries.
Raspberry Jam: I love using jam as it adds sweetness and helps the sauce thicken. If you’re avoiding sugar, unsweetened fruit preserves or a homemade berry reduction could be a healthier alternative. Honey or maple syrup are also good substitutes if preferred.
Balsamic Vinegar: For a twist, you can replace balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. This will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Do You Get The Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops to perfection can be tricky, but it’s all about the right timing and technique. Here’s how to ensure they are juicy and tender:
- Preheat your pan: Before adding your pork, make sure your skillet is hot enough. It should sizzle when you add the oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If needed, cook them in batches to ensure they sear well.
- Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat and juicy.
- Let them rest: After cooking, let the chops rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked pork chops every time! Enjoy your meal!
Raspberry Glazed Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Raspberry Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/3 cup raspberry jam or preserves
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth (optional, to adjust sauce consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to prepare these delicious Raspberry Glazed Pork Chops.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
First, grab your pork chops and sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides. This simple seasoning helps bring out the natural flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them until they are nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your chops. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate.
3. Make the Raspberry Glaze:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine Ingredients for the Glaze:
Stir in the raspberry jam, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme leaves. Continue cooking while stirring frequently until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken slightly, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the Raspberries:
Now, gently add the fresh raspberries to the sauce. Using the back of a spoon, crush some of the berries to release their juices, but leave some whole for added texture and visual appeal!
6. Adjust the Sauce Consistency:
If the glaze is too thick for your liking, you can add a little water or chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This step is optional, so just do what feels right for your sauce!
7. Bring It All Together:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and generously spoon the raspberry glaze over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Plate and Garnish:
Once your pork chops are ready, plate them up and drizzle any remaining raspberry glaze from the skillet over the top. Garnish with extra whole raspberries and fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely presentation.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious raspberry glazed pork chops immediately. They pair wonderfully with roasted potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or even a fresh salad!
Enjoy this sweet and tangy Raspberry Glazed Pork Chop dish that’s both elegant and comforting!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure they are completely thawed before cooking! The best way to thaw them is by leaving them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to start cooking them.
Can I Use Different Types of Berries?
Absolutely! While raspberries are featured in this recipe, you can substitute them with blackberries, blueberries, or even strawberries for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and tartness may vary, so adjust your glaze ingredients accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the glaze from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and raspberry glaze ahead of time. Just cook the pork chops and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them in the glaze, ensuring they’re warmed through before plating.