Pork Chops with Apple Mustard Sauce and Arugula Salad

Name: Pork Chops with Apple Mustard Sauce and Arugula Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 4 pork chops (bone-in, about 1-inch thick); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup apple juice; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water); 4 cups arugula (washed and dried); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 teaspoon salt

40 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Juicy pork chops paired with a tangy apple mustard sauce and a fresh arugula salad.

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Pork chops are a versatile and delicious choice for any meal, and when paired with a delectable apple mustard sauce, they become truly irresistible. This dish combines the savoury flavours of seared pork with the sweet and tangy notes of apple and mustard, creating a harmonious blend that's sure to delight your taste buds. To complement the richness of the pork and sauce, a fresh arugula salad adds a peppery bite and refreshing crunch. This meal is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Servings

Pork Chops

Apple Mustard Sauce

Arugula Salad

Instructions

Prepare the Pork Chops

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.

Pro tip: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding pork chops for a good sear.

Sear the Pork Chops

Place pork chops in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden and cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the chop.

Make the Apple Mustard Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine apple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Pro tip: Adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.

Thicken the Sauce

Stir in the cornstarch mixture and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to avoid lumps.

Prepare the Salad

In a bowl, toss arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt until well coated.

Pro tip: Add freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavour.

Serve

Plate the pork chops and drizzle with apple mustard sauce. Serve with the arugula salad on the side.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of colour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Choose thick-cut pork chops for juicier results.</li><li>Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.</li><li>For the salad, opt for fresh, peppery arugula leaves.</li><li>Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to your taste preference.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve these succulent pork chops with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious apple mustard sauce. The arugula salad provides a refreshing contrast, making it a well-rounded meal. If you have leftovers, store the pork and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavours deepen over time, making for an even more delicious next-day meal.