Sometimes You Just Need a Pork Chop

And today is that day. The day when you want something comforting, yet light and refreshing. The pork loin chop is light, and the apricot sauce is refreshing. Thanks to soy sauce and sesame oil - BAM - flavors soar off the plate.

Apricot-Glazed Pork Chops
Note: I like to cook the chops and sauce in my cast iron skillet - the flavors from years of use add to the overall flavor of the dish. You can also cook the chops on the grill or a stove-top grill pan. 

4 pork loin chops, with or without bone
Salt and freshly ground pepper (preferably coarsely ground black pepper)
2 teaspoons canola oil 
3/4 cup apricot preserves
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil

Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. 
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chops and cook for 3 minutes per side, until almost cooked through, but still slightly pink in the center (cook longer for thicker cuts of pork). Remove the chops from the pan and cover with foil to keep warm.
To the same skillet, combine the apricot preserves, soy sauce and sesame oil. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter and spoon the apricot sauce over top.

Serves 4




Photo: anankkml