Nightshade Free Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Pork chops can feel like a weeknight default, but this version is anything but ordinary. A warm spice rub of turmeric, ginger, and Ceylon cinnamon gives the meat a gorgeous golden crust before it ever hits the glaze, and the smell alone is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen. The real magic happens when apple cider, apple cider vinegar, and honey reduce down into a sticky, syrupy pan sauce that coats every bite with sweet-tart depth. Because the entire flavor profile is built from fruit, spices, and aromatics, there's no need to worry about tomatoes, peppers, or other nightshade ingredients sneaking in through a sauce or seasoning blend. Garlic and fresh thyme round everything out with savory, herby notes that keep the dish feeling grounded rather than sweet. Finishing with a spoonful of that glossy pan glaze right before serving makes these chops look and taste genuinely restaurant-worthy.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about ¾ inch thick, 6–8 oz each)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ceylon cinnamon
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
For the glaze
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 cup apple cider (unfiltered, unsweetened)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
For serving
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, stir together the salt, turmeric, ginger, and Ceylon cinnamon. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chop.
- 2
Heat the coconut oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the pork chops in a single layer and sear, undisturbed, for 4 minutes, until the underside is deep golden and releases easily from the pan. Flip and sear the second side for 3–4 minutes, until equally golden.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!