Balsamic Glazed Pork with Caramelized Onions
Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience with this delectable recipe for Balsamic Glazed Pork with Caramelized Onions. Inspired by a sale on boneless, country-style pork ribs, this dish was crafted from a bold and inventive approach, moving away from the usual tomato barbecue sauce in favor of a rich, balsamic glaze that perfectly complements the tender pork. If pork ribs aren’t your thing, feel free to swap them out for boneless chicken breasts or pork chops. This recipe offers a delightful combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making it a hit for any dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 to 1 1/2 pounds country-style boneless pork ribs
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons margarine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh garlic, added in the last 10 minutes)
- 1/3 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
-
Preheat and Season:
Start by combining the dried rosemary, thyme, sage, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Generously sprinkle this spice mixture on both sides of the pork ribs, rubbing it into the meat to ensure it’s well coated. Allow the seasoned ribs to stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting period helps the spices to infuse into the meat, enhancing the overall flavor. -
-
Sear the Pork:
Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, carefully add the seasoned pork ribs to the skillet. Cook the ribs for approximately 5 minutes on each side, or until a nice crust has formed. This process helps to lock in the juices and creates a delicious, flavorful exterior. -
Caramelize the Onions:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the pork ribs. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 more minutes or until the onions are tender and beginning to brown. The onions will pick up the flavors from the pork and the spices, adding sweetness and depth to the dish. -
Create the Glaze:
Pour the balsamic vinegar over the pork and onions in the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let it cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the pork ribs. During this time, occasionally stir the onions and turn the pork to ensure even cooking. The goal is to caramelize the onions, allowing them to become slightly charred and develop a sweet, smoky flavor. -
Check and Finish:
To check if the pork is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ribs. The internal temperature should reach 170°F (77°C). Once the pork is properly cooked, transfer the ribs and onions to a serving platter. -
Make the Sauce:
Increase the heat under the skillet to medium-high. Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step is crucial as it adds extra flavor to the sauce. Allow the wine to cook down and reduce by about half, which should take around 5 minutes. -
Finish the Sauce:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter until it melts completely. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this glossy, rich sauce over the pork ribs and caramelized onions on the serving platter. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Balsamic Glazed Pork with Caramelized Onions hot, with your choice of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. The combination of the sweet, tangy balsamic glaze with the rich, savory pork and the caramelized onions will surely impress your family and guests.
Enjoy this delightful and elegant dish that takes just under an hour to prepare and cook, perfect for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor! 🍴✨
