These juicy pork chops topped with a sweet and tangy raspberry balsamic glaze are simply irresistible! The flavors blend together perfectly for a tasty meal.
The best part? It’s easy to make! Just cook the chops and whip up the glaze while they sizzle. I love serving this dish with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad—it’s a hit every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor and stay juicier. If you prefer, boneless chops work too. Just adjust cooking times slightly to prevent them from drying out.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries bring brightness, but frozen ones are a good substitute and are often available year-round. Just thaw them and drain any excess water.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for that tangy sweetness. If you’re out and need a quick swap, red wine vinegar with a touch of sugar can work in a pinch.
Honey or Maple Syrup: I usually go for honey for a deep sweetness, but maple syrup adds a lovely flavor twist. You can also use agave syrup if that’s what you have.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice tang to the glaze. If you’re not a fan, yellow mustard can work too, but the flavor will be milder.
How Do I Get Perfectly Browned Pork Chops?
Achieving that golden-brown crust is essential for flavor. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chops. This helps create a great sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid steaming the chops.
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps them juicy and flavorful.
By following these tips, your pork chops will be deliciously browned and tender every time!
Easy Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy these delicious pork chops in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Seasoning the Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This step is essential for flavoring the meat!
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes on each side depending on thickness. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Raspberry Balsamic Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until you smell its fragrant aroma. Next, add the raspberries, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and the red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the raspberries break down and the sauce thickens to a glaze consistency.
4. Combining the Flavors:
Use a spoon to gently mash the raspberries in the sauce for a lovely texture. This will help make the glaze even more delicious!
5. Final Touches:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, and spoon the raspberry balsamic glaze over the top to coat the chops. Let them warm through for about 1-2 minutes, soaking up all that fantastic flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Pair these tasty pork chops with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw them is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can use the quick method of placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water until thawed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of water or broth to help keep them moist as they heat up.
Can I Substitute Balsamic Vinegar with Something Else?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can use red wine vinegar combined with a bit of sugar as a substitute. Just mix about 1 tablespoon of sugar into 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar for a similar flavor profile!
What Should I Serve with These Pork Chops?
These glazed pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious raspberry balsamic glaze!
