Cozy Sage and Apple Pork Medley

A savory and slightly sweet dish, fusing the earthy aroma of sage with crisp apple slices, all brought together in a rich, cider-glazed pork chop.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, place the pork chop in the skillet. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side until both sides are a deep golden brown. This initial sear will lock in the juices, ensuring a tender chop. Reduce heat if the oil starts to smoke.
2. 2.
   Remove the pork chop and set aside. Add the sliced apple to the same skillet. Sauté the apple slices until they start to soften and caramelize slightly, about 3 minutes. Ensure you stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The apple should be tender but not mushy, gaining some color from the skillet's browning.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle the sage over the apples, stirring to combine and release the herb's aroma. Pour in the apple cider, gently stirring to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom for added flavor, and let the cider simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened.
4. 4.
   Return the pork chop to the skillet, nestling it among the apples. Spoon some of the cider sauce over the pork. Cover the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes or until the pork reaches your desired doneness (internal temperature of 145°F for medium). The sauce should have a thick, glaze-like consistency.
5. 5.
   Transfer the pork chop and apples to a plate, drizzling the remaining sauce from the skillet over the top. Serve immediately. If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for another minute until it thickens further.