Pork Chops with Apples

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

4 bone-in pork chops
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup apple cider
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Your pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145F/64 C. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and sprinkle them with brown sugar.
5. Cook the apples, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the caramelized apples from the skillet and set them aside.
6. Pour the apple cider into the skillet, scraping the bottom to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits. Let the cider simmer until it has reduced by half.
7. Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Return the pork chops and caramelized apples to the skillet, and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and let the pork chops rest in the sauce for a minute or two.

Serve the gluten-free pork chops with the apple cider cream sauce and caramelized apples. Pair the dish with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.