Spicy Cranberry Pork Chops
Description
These Spicy Cranberry Pork Chops offer a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors that elevate a simple weeknight dinner. The tender pork loin is paired with a vibrant sauce made from whole-berry cranberry sauce, plump dark raisins, and a hint of warm cinnamon. A splash of red wine vinegar and fresh orange juice cuts through the richness, while the subtle heat adds excitement without overwhelming the palate. This dish is quick to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy evenings. The glossy glaze coats the meat beautifully, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated.Ingredients
Directions
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Lightly sprinkle the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Place the seasoned chops in a 12x8-inch microwave-safe baking dish.
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Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring no vents are open.
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Microwave on medium-low power (30%) for 16 minutes.
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After 10 minutes, carefully pause the microwave, turn the chops over, and rotate the dish a half-turn.
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Resume cooking for the remaining 6 minutes.
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Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, dark seedless raisins, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, orange juice, ground cinnamon, grated orange peel, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
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Carefully remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and drain any accumulated cooking liquid.
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Spoon the cranberry-raisin mixture evenly over the pork chops.
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Re-cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring no vents are open.
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Microwave on medium-low power for another 6 to 8 minutes.
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Cook until the meat has lost its pink color and is tender throughout.
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Let stand for 2 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 143.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.5g6%
- Saturated Fat 1.2g6%
- Cholesterol 72.0mg24%
- Sodium 62.0mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 26.0g52%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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