Sweet and Sour Pork Chops

“It takes a village…”  I have said this countless times.  I am usually referring to the way in which my wonderful friends help to raise my three kids.  In truth, my Village People, as I like to call them, are also a major influence on ME as I navigate my life.  They ensure that I am well fed, properly dressed, and adequately socialized.  They share with me hobbies, books, coupons, clothes, drinks, ingredients, stories, disappointments, and achievements.  And, they are the first ones to respond when I need help.

I am lucky to have Shanna, today’s guest blogger, in my Village.  Earlier this week, I complained via Facebook that my to-do list was making me wish for a 27-hour day.  Never mind the pile of laundry, lack of a dinner plan, and a kitchen floor desperate for a broom, I had multiple work-related deadlines looming.  Shanna immediately replied and said, “What can I do to help?” A few emails later, she had whipped up this delicious meal, sent the recipe AND photos.

Everybody needs a village.  Who are your Village People?

Sweet and Sour Pork Chops (Adapted from The One-Armed Cook)

Serves 4-5

Shanna says:  I found this book while shopping in Babies R Us after having my 3rd child and dinner time seemed almost non-existent. This recipe is super easy and all the kids love it! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, balsamic is equally yummy. I served mine last night with rice pilaf and green beans!

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 – 5 center cut pork chops
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup apple juice
2 tablespoon light brown sugar
2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard

1) Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2)  Salt and pepper the chops and cook 4 min on each side.

3) In a small bowl, whisk together juice, brown sugar, vinegar and dry mustard.

4) Add to the skillet, bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.

5) Transfer chops to a plate and continue cooking sauce for 5 minutes, whisking it often to scrape any bits from the bottom of the skillet.

6) Add chops back in and continue to cook for 5 more minutes.  Sauce should be thickened.