Day 22: Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

This is another pick from Bonnie and James. They got it from the Reynolds Wrap Cookbook. So in addition to being easy prep, it is also easy cleanup. SOLD!!!

I also was really intrigued by the this recipe because it sounded like dessert. Dried cranberries, apples, brown sugar...YUM!!! I felt guilty making it for Austin, but my sweet tooth made me do it.

Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

foil
4 pork chops(boneless)
1 pkg stuffing mix for pork
1/2 C chopped apples1/4 C dried cranberries
1/2 tsp seasoning salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 Tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp melted butter

Step 1: Cut pocket in each pork chop.
Step 2: Prepare stuffing mix according to directions. Stir in apples and cranberries.
Step 3: Place chops on foil, salt and pepper. Stuff with 1/2 of stuffing.
Step 4: Line baking pan with foil.Bake 18-20 minutes at 425 degrees.
Step 5: Remove and heat broiler. Mix brown sugar and butter, brush onto chops. Broil 3-4 inches from broiler for 5-8 minutes.

Kitchen Play by Play: It's a miracle I have two hands to type with after trying to prepare this recipe. I am a complete moron when it comes to using a knife, so needless to say, cutting the pocket in the pork...not so easy. I had a few close calls, but in the end walked away unscathed. The stuffing prep was a no brainer. I did not measure the apples or the cranberries. I used one small, peeled apple and a good handful of cranberries. I stuffed the chops to the gills and seasoned the top of the chops before putting them on the pan. I forgot to use Lawry's and used regular salt instead. Much to my surprise, the chops actually appeared cooked after 18 minutes so I chose not to add time and risk dry chops. I took them out while the broiler heated up. I slathered the brown sugar mixture onto the chops as this is the part I was most excited about. I envisioned a creme brulee like glaze sizzling on the top of the chops. There was some sizzling going on, but not on my chops. Instead, it was a sea of brown sugar deliciousness on the foil. My only explanation for this is that because my chops were stuffed so much, they created a ramp for the glaze, and it slid/rolled right off onto the pan. DANG IT!!!!!!! Also, FYI any exposed cranberries may burn a little under the broiler so try to shove them towards the inside.

The Finished Product
The Verdict:
Nicole- Chop alone...not much taste partly due to the fact that none of the glaze stayed on the chop :( The chop with the stuffing...VERY yummy. I think the Lawry's would have helped too. The pork was cooked almost perfectly. It could have been a little juicier, but it was definitely not overcooked. I really enjoyed these flavors together. I give it a 4.

Paul-gives it a 4."Little tough eating sweet pork chops, but they were cooked perfect, and I like the combination with the stuffing."

Austin-LOVED the stuffing especially the apples in it. He ate all the pork on his plate too, but said no to more.