Pork Chops with a Spicy Fig Sauce

Fall is here, and that means it's the perfect time to savor the rich flavors of seasonal ingredients like figs. Figs are in season from late summer through early fall, making them a delightful autumn staple. These Pork Chops with a Spicy Fig Sauce capture the essence of the season. This dish combines the savory goodness of perfectly seared pork chops with the sweet and spicy kick of figs, making it a delightful addition to your fall menu.

Ingredients

Bone-In Center Cut Pork Chops: Pork chops are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness and quick cook time. The bone adds extra flavor to the meat.

Fig Jam or Fig Butter: Fig jam or fig butter serves as the sweet base for the sauce and imparts a delicious fall flavor

Red Onion: Red onion adds a subtle bite and texture to the sauce, balancing out the sweetness of the figs.

Garlic Cloves: Garlic enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.

Apple Cider Vinegar: The vinegar contributes a tangy acidity that complements the sweetness of the figs and helps balance the dish.

Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard not only adds a touch of heat but also works as an emulsifier, helping to bind the sauce together.

Chipolte in Adobo: The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce provide smokiness and a spicy kick, creating a harmonious balance with the figs' natural sweetness.

Olive Oil: Olive oil is essential for searing the pork chops and creating a golden crust on the outside.

Fall's best produce: Figs

Figs are at their peak from late summer through early fall, typically from August to October. Their sweet and slightly nutty flavor makes them a beloved fall ingredient. They pair beautifully with savory dishes, balancing out the earthy, hearty flavors that are so comforting during the cooler months. Incorporating figs into your autumn recipes allows you to enjoy the best of what the season has to offer.

Spicy Fig Sauce

The combination of figs and spicy elements, like the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, creates a perfect sweet-spicy balance in this dish. The sweetness of the figs is enhanced by the smoky heat of the chiles, creating a complex and delightful flavor profile that's perfect for any meat, but especially pork chops.

Steps to make spicy Fig Sauce

Sweat a red onion over medium heat for 5 minutes then stir in garlic and a minced chipolte in adobo. If you prefer more spice, feel free to add in as many chipoltes as you can handle!

Add the fig jam, apple cider vinegar, and dijon. Stir over low hear to combine.

Season pork chops with salt and pepper then brush the spicy fig sauce on both sides of the pork chops.

Cooking Bone-in Pork Chops

For perfectly cooked pork chops, follow these steps when using a cast iron skillet:

1. Preheat the skillet: Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot before adding any oil.
2. Sear the chops: Add olive oil to the hot skillet and carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the pan. Sear them for about 2 minutes over medium high heat on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. This helps seal in the juices and keeps the chops moist. Then turn the heat down to medium and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They are safe to eat when they reach 140°F (63°C). This ensures they are cooked through while remaining tender and juicy.
4. Rest before serving: Allow the cooked pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy, delicious bite every time.

Pork Chops with Spicy Fig Sauce is a delightful fall recipe that celebrates the season's bounty. Figs in their prime, combined with the spicy kick of chipotle peppers, create a mouthwatering balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Cooking the pork chops to perfection in a cast iron skillet guarantees a juicy and tender result. Enjoy this seasonal dish with friends and family as you relish the cozy flavors of fall. Happy cooking!

More Fall Forward Recipes

Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Burrata is always a treat when the weather starts to turn!

Creamy Rosemary Orzo with Shrimp is another cool-weather favorite!

It wouldn't be fall without baking! These Apple Cider Muffins with Brown Butter Crumble, Gooey Pumpkin S'mores, and Buckwheat Chai Spiced Scones are my current favorites.