How To Make Grilled Pork Chops With Apricot-Raspberry Reduction

If you purchase high quality pork chops, like those made from Tamwotth pigs, such as those from SP Ranches, then it's important that you prepare them in a way that does the meat justice. Many recipes call for ingredients that overwhelm the natural flavor of the pork or result in dry, flavorless meat. This recipe, however, accentuates the meat and only calls for cooking it to medium doneness on a charcoal grill. 

Whether you're preparing the pork for company or just for your family, everyone is sure to ask for seconds when they taste this tender, herb-seasoned pork with an apricot-raspberry reduction.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless pork loin chops, cut to 1 1/2 inches thick
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons fresh chives, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries
  • 6 fresh apricots
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step 1: Seasoning the Pork

Place the pork chops on a plate, and sprinkle them with the salt, pepper, and herbs on both sides. Let them sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes. This makes for more even grilling.

Step 2: Preparing the Reduction

While the pork rests at room temperature, you can prepare the reduction. Peel the apricots, remove their pits, and cut the fruit into 1/4-inch cubes. Combine the apricot with the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a simmer. Then, simmer for 5 minutes before removing the reduction from the heat. By the time it is done, the mixture should thicken somewhat. Set the reduction aside.

Step 3: Grilling the Pork

Place the pork chops on a medium-hot grill, and cook them for approximately 8 minutes per side. Check them with a thermometer, and make sure it registers a temperature of 160 degrees F (medium). Do not overcook! Remove the pork chops, and set them aside to rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Plating the Dish

Serve the pork on individual plates. Place a pork chop on the plate, and then top it with a spoonful or two of the fruit reduction.

This dish is delicious served alongside a salad or even some grilled veggies. If you have any leftovers, store them in a sealed container on the fridge. You can reheat the pork in the oven for about 15 minutes at 350 degrees F, and reheat the fruit reduction over low heat on the stove.


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