Description
Deliciously tender balsamic pork chops cooked to golden perfection and glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction, finished with creamy crumbled goats cheese and fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 pork chops, 2.5cm / 1″ thick, about 200-250g (7-8oz) each (excluding any bone)
Cooking
- 1 – 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 onion, finely sliced (~1 cup; brown, yellow, or white)
Sauce
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup (60g) brown sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Crumbled goats cheese or feta cheese, as desired
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Pork Chops: Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the first side of each pork chop for 4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms, then flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes to seal in juices.
- Rest the Pork: Transfer the seared pork chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm and allow the juices to redistribute.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet on medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, cooking for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Create the Balsamic Sauce: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and sprinkle in the brown sugar. Stir continuously to dissolve the sugar. When the mixture reaches a simmer, reduce heat to maintain a gentle bubble without rapid boiling.
- Reduce the Sauce: Allow the balsamic mixture to simmer uncovered for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces to almost half and thickens into a thin syrup.
- Reheat Pork in Sauce: Return the pork chops along with any juices on the plate back into the skillet. Simmer gently while turning the pork for about 2 minutes until the sauce reaches a syrupy consistency to your liking and the pork is warmed through.
- Serve: Plate the pork chops and garnish generously with crumbled goats cheese or feta and sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Choose pork chops that are about 1 inch thick to ensure even cooking and juiciness.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on how sweet you prefer your sauce.
- Be careful not to overcook the pork; the searing times ensure a juicy and tender result.
- The balsamic reduction should be a thin syrup; do not over-reduce or it may become too thick and overpowering.
- Optional garnishes like crumbled goats cheese add creamy contrast while fresh herbs brighten the dish.
