Meat & Game

Garlic and Fennel Pork Chops

Name: Garlic and Fennel Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 2 Pork Chops; 3 tbsp Garlic Oil; 1 tbsp Fennel Seeds; 2 tsp Chili Flakes; 1 tsp Dried Sage; 240 ml Balsamic Vinegar; 30 ml Honey; Pinch Salt

Tender pork chops seasoned with fennel seeds, garlic oil, and chilli, seared until golden, then finished in the oven. Drizzled with a sweet-tart balsamic reduction.

4.7 (3 reviews)

• By Ricky Robinson • Updated August 20, 2024

This is a straightforward dish that brings together tender pork chops with a proper blend of fennel seeds, chilli flakes, and dried sage. The garlic oil adds a rich depth that works really well with the pork, building a savoury base without making too much fuss about it.

The chops are seared first to get a nice caramelised crust going, then transferred to the oven to finish cooking through. This two-step method keeps the meat juicy and tender, rather than drying it out on the hob. The fennel seeds give a subtle anise note that cuts through the richness of the pork, while the chilli flakes provide just enough warmth to make things interesting without overwhelming the palate.

Meanwhile, the balsamic reduction comes together on the hob. Balsamic vinegar and honey simmer down until you get a glossy, tangy sauce that balances sweet and sour. It is the sort of sauce that ties the whole plate together without needing much effort.

Garlic and Fennel Pork Chops recipe image

The contrast between the seasoned crust on the pork chops and the sweet-tart balsamic glaze is what makes this dish work. You get savoury, sweet, tangy, and a bit of heat all in one bite.

Searing the pork chops first locks in the juices, while finishing them in the oven ensures they cook evenly without drying out.

Serve this with roasted potatoes and carrots, or whatever you have on hand. It is a well-rounded meal that does not require much in the way of technique or time. The sort of dinner you can pull together on a weeknight without needing to plan days in advance.