Wednesday’s Winner: Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops – A Gourmet Touch to Midweek Meals

Welcome to the middle of the week and the next stage of our cherry-infused culinary journey. Today, we’re moving from salads to the main course with Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops. This recipe adds a gourmet touch to your midweek dinner and showcases the sweet and tangy versatility of Okanagan cherries.

Ingredients:

  • 4 pork chops
  • 1 cup pitted and chopped Okanagan cherries
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until reduced and thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Cook the Pork Chops: Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook until browned and cooked through.
  3. Glaze the Pork Chops: Pour the cherry balsamic glaze over the pork chops and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Serve: Plate the pork chops and spoon extra glaze over the top. Serve with a side of your choice, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
  5. Optional Customizations: For added flavor, you can include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the glaze or garnish with fresh cherry halves.

A Midweek Gourmet Experience

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops bring a touch of elegance to a weekday dinner. The rich balsamic reduction coupled with the sweetness of the cherries creates a unique and flavourful glaze that complements the savoury pork.

This dish offers versatility in pairing with various sides, from a light salad to hearty roasted potatoes. The cherry balsamic glaze can also be used with other proteins like chicken or beef.

Embrace the vibrant flavours of summer with these Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops. This recipe showcases the culinary possibilities of cherries beyond desserts and invites you to elevate your midweek meals.

Stay tuned for more cherry-inspired creations as we continue our week-long celebration. Tomorrow, we’ll explore a refreshing cherry beverage perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.

– Chef Sarah