Apple Cider Pork Chops Recipe: How to Make Apple Cider Pork

Apple cider pork chops are a main course of pork chops (cut from the pork loin) cooked with unfiltered apple juice or hard cider. In the United States, “apple cider” typically refers to unfiltered apple juice, while “hard cider” is an alcoholic beverage made from the former. In Europe, “cider” is almost always alcoholic.

There are many ways to add apple cider to tender pork chops. Combine unfiltered apple juice and brown sugar to make an apple cider glaze, marinate the chops in apple cider vinegar, or use hard cider as you would wine to make a simple pan sauce.

You can make juicy pork chops with or without a bone. Here are a few differences to keep in mind when choosing the best pork chops for your recipe:

• Amount of meat per pound: Per pound or chop, bone-in pork chops have less meat because the bone counts toward the weight.
• Fat and connective tissue: There is fat and connective tissue surrounding the bone that, if properly cooked, can enhance the flavor of the chop. If you like the look of the bone but want a leaner pork chop, ask your butcher to “french” the chop, which involves trimming some of that fat and connective tissue away to reveal the bone.
• Cooking time: Bone-in pork chops take slightly longer to cook than boneless pork chops since the bone has an insulating effect. However, cook time also depends on the thickness of the chops. Pork is safe to eat once the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by a three-minute rest at room temperature. Learn how to use a meat thermometer properly.

Apple cider pork chops combine sweet and savory flavors. Try the pork cut with these classic side dishes:

1. 1. Green beans: Sauté green beans in garlic and olive oil or blanch them to retain their green color and snappy texture. Add slivered almonds or lemon zest and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. 2. Mashed potatoes: A starchy side like mashed potatoes is perfect for sopping up the apple cider sauce. Learn how to make pomme purée with Chef Gordon Ramsay.
3. 3. Roasted sweet potatoes: Cut sweet potatoes in half, then put them on a sheet pan cut-side down. Drizzle the skin with olive oil and sprinkle on salt and red pepper flakes before roasting in the oven for crispy skin and soft flesh.