Why You’ll Love This Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, you’ll love this Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops recipe. It’s a game changer for busy nights!
The tender, juicy pork chops infused with apple cider and spices create a mouthwatering flavor that’s simply irresistible. Plus, the pressure cooker cuts down on cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal in just under 30 minutes.
You won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, and cleanup is a breeze. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll appreciate the simplicity of it all!
Ingredients of Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops
When it comes to whipping up a delectable meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops recipe is a total gem. The combination of juicy pork chops and the sweet, aromatic notes of apple cider creates a dish that’s comforting and satisfying, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Plus, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients to make this magic happen. So, let’s gather what we need before diving into the cooking part.
Ingredients for Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops:
- 6 pork chops, bone-in, 3/4-inch thick
- 2 teaspoons seasoning salt, such as Lowery’s
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6-12 dried apple slices
- 2 tablespoons aspen mulling spices
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a second. First off, when you’re picking out your pork chops, go for bone-in if you can. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which is what we want here.
And don’t worry if you can’t find aspen mulling spices; you can totally use another blend of spices that you enjoy, like cinnamon and nutmeg. The dried apples add a lovely sweetness and a nice texture, but if you’re in a pinch, fresh apples will work too, although they won’t give you that chewy aspect.
Just remember, cooking should be fun, so feel free to experiment a little. Who knows, you might just stumble upon your new favorite flavor combo!
How to Make Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops
Making Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops is a breeze, and trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe handy. First things first, grab your 6 bone-in pork chops. They should be about 3/4-inch thick—perfect for soaking up all that delicious flavor. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of seasoning salt, like Lowery’s, on both sides of the chops and let them rest for about 3-4 minutes. This little waiting game helps the seasoning work its magic.
While you’re at it, heat up 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in the bottom of your pressure cooker over medium heat. Once that oil is shimmering, it’s showtime! Brown those chops on both sides until they’ve a lovely golden crust, then transfer them to a plate.
Now, here comes the fun part. Take 6 to 12 dried apple slices (yes, you can use more if you’re feeling adventurous) and press one or two slices onto each chop. Sprinkle a bit of your aspen mulling spices—2 tablespoons will do—on top of them. If you can’t find those mulling spices, no biggie. A dash of cinnamon and nutmeg can step in and do the job.
Now, fit those chops into the basket of your pressure cooker, standing them on edge. Yes, I know it sounds a bit like a game of Tetris, but trust me, it’ll all work out. Pour 1 cup of apple cider over the chops, secure the lid, and crank up the heat to bring it to high pressure. You’ll want to keep a close eye on it, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain 15 lbs of pressure. Cook for 17 minutes, then let the cooker release its pressure naturally for about 10 minutes. It’s like a mini waiting game, but the smell wafting through your kitchen will make it totally worth it.
When the time is up, carefully remove your chops and place them on a serving platter, covering them with foil to keep warm. Now, for the grand finale—making the sauce. In a 1-cup glass measure, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the microwave (about 30 seconds should do the trick). Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour with a whisk. Then, give it another quick zap in the microwave for about 40 seconds. This creates a nice roux!
Now, whisk in a bit of the pot liquid to smooth it out, then add this mixture back into the pot. Bring it to a boil, whisking until it thickens up a bit. Pour that luscious sauce over your chops, and voilà! Dinner is served. You’ve just whipped up a cozy meal that’s sure to impress, even if you did burn toast last week.
Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up those delicious Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops, you might want to switch things up a bit.
For a different flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of pork chops—just adjust the cooking time slightly. You can also swap out apple cider for pear juice for a unique twist.
If you’re short on dried apples, fresh slices work too; just add them later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Finally, experiment with different spices—cinnamon or nutmeg can add a wonderful warmth. Enjoy customizing this recipe to suit your taste!
What to Serve with Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops
To complement the rich flavors of Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops, I love serving them with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
The buttery texture of the potatoes balances the savory notes of the pork chops perfectly.
I also enjoy adding a side of sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli for a pop of color and vibrancy.
A crisp apple salad with walnuts and a tangy vinaigrette adds a revitalizing contrast, enhancing the apple cider theme.
Finally, don’t forget some warm, crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce—it’s a must for a complete meal experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
While cooking Pressure Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops, I’ve found a few tips that can enhance your dish.
First, don’t skip the seasoning salt; it really elevates the flavor. If you can, let the chops marinate for a bit to absorb the spices better.
Using bone-in chops adds moisture and richness, so I highly recommend it. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a splash of maple syrup to the cider.
Finally, don’t rush the natural pressure release; it helps keep the pork tender. Enjoy your meal, and feel free to experiment with your favorite sides!