Apple Glazed Pork Chop with Grilled Cabbage and Apples

I love apples this time of year. So, I bought some at the Farmer's Market, so I could "multi-purpose" some for eating and some for cooking. I chose the Zestar variety, because they are perfect for both. I had more than enough to snack on, and cook with as well. I usually purchase the "scratch and dent" bag, because I feel a little sorry for them, sitting on the table while people purchase their perfect cousins. And honestly, there isn't anything wrong with them they are just not as pretty. They taste just the same.

 

I like pairing them with pork, because it really is a perfect flavor combination. In this recipe, I also took advantage of some homemade apple jelly to make a glaze for the chops. It was a delicate, savory dish that was a great way to welcome fall.

 

The grilled cabbage was something of a revelation for me. I had heard tell of this magical dish, but had never attempted it. I like cabbage, so disguising it or transforming it isn't necessary, but for the non-cabbage lover, this could be a game changer. Grilling really masks some of that pungent flavor. I could eat this all day.

 

Apple Glazed Pork Chops with Grilled Cabbage and Apples

For the glaze

1/2 cup apple jelly

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon salt

Whisk together and set aside.

 

For the apples:

3 Zestar apples, peeled, cored and sliced

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Toss apples in vinegar. Lay out a double layer of aluminum foil. Lay apples on foil, top with another double layer of foil and seal edges.

 

For the cabbage:

One small head of cabbage, cut into 8 wedges

1/4 cup of butter

1/2 cup onion, finely diced

Salt and pepper

Butter each side of the cabbage wedges, then generously salt and pepper. Lay out a double layer of aluminum foil, and lay out the cabbage. Sprinkle onions on top, then top with another double layer of foil. Seal edges.

 

For the chops:

4 six ounce center cut pork loin chops

Salt and pepper

Preheat grill to high.Salt and pepper both sides of pork chops. Place cabbage packet on first. Let heat 10 minutes ahead, then place apples on the top rack of grill. Heat for 10 more minutes, then start the pork chops. Grill for 5 minutes, then turn the chops. Brush generously with the glaze, and grill another 5 minutes. Brush generously again, before removing from grill. Let rest for 5 more minutes before serving, and give it another good brush on both sides with the glaze before plating. Serve the apples on top of the chops.