Description
This easy Strawberry Balsamic Pork Chops recipe pairs juicy bone-in pork chops with a sweet and tangy homemade strawberry balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick and elegant Valentine’s dinner, the dish features a flavorful sear and a luscious fruit glaze that enhances the pork’s natural richness. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pork Chops
- 2 pieces bone-in pork chops
Strawberry Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup as substitute)
- 1 tablespoon butter (dairy-free option if needed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (optional, minced)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Begin by heating a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil to ensure even cooking and a beautiful sear on the pork chops.
- Season the pork chops: Generously season both sides of the pork chops with your favorite spices to enhance their flavor.
- Sear the pork chops: Place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a rich golden crust and are cooked through.
- Rest the pork chops: Remove the pork chops from the skillet carefully and tent them with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the glaze.
- Prepare the glaze: In the same skillet, add the sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, butter, and optional minced garlic. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the glaze: Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the glaze thickens and the strawberries break down slightly.
- Serve: Pour the thickened strawberry balsamic glaze generously over the rested pork chops and serve immediately for a delicious balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Notes
- Bone-in pork chops are preferred for juiciness and flavor, but boneless can be used if desired.
- Fresh strawberries are ideal, but thawed frozen strawberries work well too.
- Adjust balsamic vinegar amount based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- Honey can be swapped for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Use dairy-free butter for a lactose-free option.
- Garlic is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the glaze.
- Letting pork chops rest before serving helps retain their juices and tenderness.
