Bacon Chops with Apple and Cider (Irish)

Pork chops with apple cider has been a popular meal in Ireland for generations. There are various methods of cooking and serving it. This is a traditional version.

1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
4 bacon chops
1 knob butter
1-2 cooking apples, sliced
1-2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp. sugar
dry cider (125 mL)
1 tsp. cider vinegar
1 Tbsp. whole-grain mustard
3-4 sprigs thyme
sea salt
black pepper, freshly ground

Heat the oil in a frying pan.

Cook the chops for 10-15 minutes, browning well on both sides.

Remove from the frying pan and keep warm. Add the butter and the apples to the frying pan. Cook until the juices just begin to brown.

Add the garlic and the sugar. Cook for another minute. Stir in the cider vinegar, mustard and herbs and boil for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. Taste for seasoning.

Serve the chops with the sauce, a green vegetable and lots of mashed potatoes.

Makes 4 servings.