Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a culinary masterpiece that transforms ordinary pork chops into an extraordinary dining experience! Imagine succulent, spice-crusted pork chops that crackle with flavor, perfectly paired with sweet, juicy cherries and aromatic oregano. This recipe is not just a meal—it's a gourmet journey that will elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent in just 35 minutes. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal, these Spice Crusted Pork Chops with Cherries and Oregano are about to become your new favorite go-to recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the spice rub.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the spice rub adhere better.
- Generously coat both sides of each pork chop with the spice mixture, pressing the seasonings gently into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully place the spice-coated pork chops into the hot skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms and internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Remove pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- In the same skillet, quickly sauté the halved cherries for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh oregano over the cherries and pork chops just before serving.
- Plate the pork chops and top with the warm cherry and oregano mixture, serving immediately.
Tips
- Temperature is key: Always let your pork chops rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and a perfectly juicy result.
- Dry meat = crispy crust: Pat your pork chops completely dry before applying the spice rub. This helps create a beautiful golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect sear.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F, which ensures juicy meat without overcooking.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meat to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices, making each bite more tender and flavorful.
- Fresh herbs matter: Use fresh oregano if possible, as it provides a more vibrant and intense flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Choose ripe cherries: Select fresh, plump cherries for the best flavor and texture in your sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 556kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
