Pork Chops Baked in Pear Sauerkraut
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Description: Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, this comforting dish evokes memories of my time in Germany. Traditionally, a German hausfrau might add an apple to the sauerkraut for a touch of sweetness, but using baby food pears is a clever shortcut that enhances the sauerkraut’s flavor while keeping things simple and delicious. The combination of tender pork chops and subtly sweet sauerkraut makes for a mouthwatering meal that will transport you straight to a cozy German kitchen.
Category: Pork
Keywords: Meat, < 30 Mins
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless center cut pork chops
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup puréed pears (baby food pears work perfectly)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
-
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s ready to cook the pork chops evenly once they’re added. -
Prepare the Skillet
In a large, ovenproof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. This will help to sear the pork chops nicely and develop a delicious crust. -
Brown the Pork Chops
Add the boneless center cut pork chops to the skillet, cooking them for about 2 minutes on each side. Turn them once to ensure they are lightly browned all over. This initial searing will add great flavor to the dish. -
Season the Chops
After browning, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Season them with 1/4 teaspoon pepper and 1/8 teaspoon salt to enhance their taste. -
Prepare the Sauerkraut Mixture
While the pork chops are cooking, drain the sauerkraut and rinse it under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In the same skillet, combine the sauerkraut with 1/2 cup of puréed pears. Stir well to mix the flavors. -
Assemble the Dish
Once the sauerkraut and pear mixture is well combined, place the seasoned pork chops back into the skillet on top of the sauerkraut mixture. -
Bake the Pork Chops
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork chops uncovered for about 18 to 20 minutes. The chops are done when the centers are opaque and barely pink. This cooking time ensures that the pork is tender and fully cooked. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve your baked pork chops with a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes. The rich flavor of the sauerkraut paired with the tender pork chops makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Note: For the best flavor, use bagged sauerkraut from the meat section of your supermarket, where it’s typically found near bratwurst and other sausages. It often tastes fresher and better than canned or jarred varieties.
Enjoy this delightful meal that brings a touch of Germany to your table, perfect for a quick yet flavorful dinner. 🌟🍽️
