Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the Chops: Pat dry the pork chops with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Herb Infusion: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and rosemary. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop.
- Sear the Chops: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet with the pork chops in the preheated oven. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from the oven and let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Making the Apple-Cranberry Compote:
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, dried cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the apples are tender, and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Remove the cinnamon stick from the compote. Serve the warm compote alongside the herb-crusted pork chops.