Skip to content 
There are affiliate links associated with this post, for which I will receive compensation from the retailer. Thank you for supporting JustJeannie so we can continue to create content for you to enjoy.
Today, I’m excited to share a story of culinary adventure and comfort. But before we dive into the delicious details of our Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops with Creamy Pumpkin Risotto, let’s take a quick trip down the memory lane of pork, a meat that’s been savored throughout history.
Pork: A Journey Through Time
Pork has a rich history that spans centuries and continents. Did you know that pork is one of the oldest domesticated livestock species, with records dating back over 5,000 years? It has graced the tables of ancient civilizations, from the Chinese to the Romans, and has played a significant role in cultural and culinary traditions worldwide.
In medieval Europe, roasted pork was often the centerpiece of grand feasts, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Pork has also been celebrated in various forms, from the succulent ribs of American barbecue to the mouthwatering hams of Southern cuisine. Its versatility knows no bounds, with cuts suitable for frying, grilling, roasting, and more.
Pork Chops: A Modern Classic
Fast forward to today, and pork chops have become a modern classic. While they may not have graced my plate for over two decades, I couldn’t resist the call of nostalgia. It was time for a delicious reunion.
The Apple Cider Revelation
Now, let’s talk about apple cider. It’s a beverage that transcends generations, evoking memories of apple orchards and cozy evenings by the fireplace. Infusing that warm, apple-y goodness into my pork chops was like a culinary hug from fall itself.
As the pork chops simmered in apple cider vinegar, the aroma was nothing short of divine. But here’s a little secret: apple cider vinegar can be quite the bold character. To mellow out its acidity and add a touch of sweetness, I stirred in a sprinkle of brown sugar. A pinch of nutmeg and a hint of cinnamon brought that unmistakable fall flair to our dish.
The Pumpkin Risotto Connection
Now, no pork chop is complete without a delectable side. Enter Creamy Pumpkin Risotto, a dish that embodies the very essence of autumn. Its velvety texture and earthy sweetness make it the perfect partner for our cider-glazed pork chops.
With butternut squash in one hand and Arborio rice in the other, I embarked on a culinary adventure to create a risotto that captured the savory essence of the season. Creamy, decadent, and seasoned to perfection, it was the ideal complement to our pork chops.
SHOP THE BLOG
ITEMS THAT WILL MAKE YOUR CULINARY JOURNEY EXCEPTIONAL
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops with Creamy Pumpkin Risotto
Yummy, juicy pork chops with creamy pumpkin risotto is a delightful family meal for autumn.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Creamy Pumpkin Risotto:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops:
- Season the Pork Chops: Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Set them aside to come to room temperature while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. This will be used to season the pork chops and create the glaze.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the pork chops as they cook. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Make the Apple Cider Glaze: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in the apple cider and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the cider to simmer and reduce by half, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the butter until it’s melted and the sauce becomes glossy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- Finish the Pork Chops: Return the seared pork chops to the skillet with the apple cider glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, turning the chops in the glaze to coat them evenly. This will allow the flavors to meld, and the pork chops to absorb some of the glaze.
- Serve: Once the pork chops are heated through and glazed to your liking, transfer them to serving plates. Spoon the remaining glaze over the top of the pork chops. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve your Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Creamy Pumpkin Risotto:
- In a large skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add Arborio rice and toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until absorbed.
- Begin adding warmed broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the rice is creamy and cooked, about 18-20 minutes.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, fresh thyme, Parmesan cheese, and butter.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Reduce the apple cider to 1/2 cup and add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar to reduce the tanginess of the dish.
The result? A heartwarming reunion of Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops and Creamy Pumpkin Risotto. It was a feast that filled our home with the comforting scents of fall and filled our hearts with happiness. Stepping out of my culinary comfort zone turned into a cherished memory.
Give it a try, savor the flavors of the season with your loved ones, and create your own heartwarming memories. Happy cooking, fellow food explorers! 🍁🍂🍽️
#FallFeast #ComfortFoodRevival #FamilyDinner #HomeCooking
Enjoying this recipe? You’ll love exploring more of my handcrafted recipes on my website that brings joy to every occasion.
Enjoy these pork chops, and let it inspire you to explore the richness of simple, elegant cooking. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting a dinner party, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
If you’re on the hunt for more chic and unique home decor ideas, dive into a world of elegance and inspiration with Just Jeannie’s collection of posts and tutorials by clicking here.
Embrace your creativity and when you bring a touch of Just Jeannie into your home, don’t forget to snap a photo and tag @JustJeannie on Instagram. We love celebrating your exquisite spaces and might even feature your decor flair in our stories!
